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Thank you!

2011-10-31T12:07:00.000-07:00

Thank you for taking this journey with us.
While our Bible study class is still meeting every Sunday morning, our study format is changing, starting next week. So, this is the end of this blog... and the beginning of exciting new things God has planned!
Come and see what we are up to!

For Sunday, October 30, 2011

2011-10-23T06:16:00.000-07:00

1) Romans 12:1-2

What is Paul urging the Christians to do? What does that mean? How is it different from the old sacrificial system? How is worship dependent on this attitude? What does it mean to be conformed? What does it mean to be transformed? How has God renewed your mind? How does it still need to be renewed? How does presenting yourself as a sacrifice prove God’s will?

2) Romans 12:3-8

According to Paul, how should a Christian think of themselves? Why? How do we all fit together as Christians? Why do you think Paul was giving these instructions? What service gifts has God given you? How are you using them?

3) Romans 12:9-16

How can love be tainted by hypocrisy? What did Paul have to say about how Christians treat each other? What did he have to say about a Christian’s attitude? Which of these is hardest for you? When are we tempted to be wise in our own estimation? What is the danger in this attitude? How does it affect our relationship with God? With others?

4) Romans 12:17-21

What are the main categories of behaviors Paul addresses in this passage? How can you respect what is right in the sight of someone you disagree with? What does Paul say about peace? Why is this important to a Christian? How does Paul’s teaching about revenge compare to our society’s teaching about it? How should a Christian overcome evil? When is it tempting to do it differently? Why is this a foundational truth?

For Sunday, October 23, 2011

2011-10-15T20:27:00.000-07:00

1) Romans 9:1-5

What was bothering Paul? How would you describe his feelings about it? What was he willing to do? What are you willing to do to help someone else come to a true understanding of following Christ?

Romans 9:19-24

What argument was Paul confronting in this passage? To whom did Paul compare God? To what did Paul compare the Christian? How does knowing this truth change the way you live your life?

2) Romans 9:30-33

What was the comparison Paul made in these verses? What is the key to the pursuit? Who was the stumbling stone? Who did He make stumble?

Romans 10:1-4

What was Paul’s heart desire? What is your heart desire? Do you have a burden for an individual or a people group to come to Christ? What are you doing about it? What was wrong with how the Israelites were pursuing righteousness?

3) Romans 10:8-15

According to Paul in this passage, what must a person do to be saved? What was the encouragement for Paul’s audience found in verses 12-13? What is the progression a person must go through to reach salvation? What was the purpose of all of Paul’s questions in verses 14-16?

4) Romans 11:1-2a; 5-6

According to Paul, how had God’s relationship with His people, Israel, changed? What was the good news in these verses? What was the bad news?

Romans 11:33-36

How did Paul finish his theological explanation about the role of Jews and Gentiles in God’s kingdom? What do you think he ended this way? What stands out to you in these verses?

For Sunday, October 16, 2011

2011-10-09T15:50:00.000-07:00

1) Romans 8:1-11

Why is there now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus? What does Paul say about the law of the Spirit? The Law of the Flesh? What is the contrast between the two? What characterizes the mind set on death? on the Spirit? According to Paul, in what domain do believers live?

2) Romans 8:12-25

What is our obligation, according to Paul? What is the difference Paul describes between slavery and adoption? How does that change our approach to struggling with sin? What did Paul declare is clear evidence that a person is a child of God? What do you do to stay in fellowship with the Spirit? What does Paul have to say about suffering and the future? In what ways do you see or feel the “birth pains” of God’s ultimate plan?

3) Romans 8:26-30

In what way does the Holy Spirit intercede for believers? When have you experienced this? How has the Holy Spirit helped you in praying about a difficult situation? Does this promise only apply to difficult situations?

What promise did Paul declare was given to those who love God concerning the things that happen to them?

4) Romans 8:31-39

What does Paul say about our victory over sin in this passage? What does he teach about God’s love in this passage? About God’s power? Which verse in this passage is most meaningful to you right now in your Christian walk? How will these truths effect how you live?

For Sunday, October 9, 2011

2011-10-01T20:49:00.000-07:00

1) Romans 7:7-13

What questions did Paul anticipate from his opponents in this section? Why would Pauls’ opponents argue this? Or why would they argue that Paul was leading to this idea? What is the purpose of the Law? How does the Law make sin alive? What was Paul’s conclusion about the Law?

2) Romans 7:14-20

What is the conflict Paul describes in this passage? Do you identify with this struggle in your own life? How would you describe your personal experience with this struggle? Is verse 17 an excuse?

3) Romans 7:21-25

How does Paul identify the parts of himself that are in conflict? What is Paul’s conclusion? Where does freedom come from? How would you describe this freedom to someone who hasn’t experienced it? Are you experiencing freedom over sin in your life?

4) Review Genesis 3

How do you look at this story differently after reading Paul’s teaching in Romans 7?

John 14:13; James 1:22; 1 John 2:3-6

What do these verses teach about why the struggle against sin is important?

For Sunday, October 2, 2011

2011-09-25T08:04:00.000-07:00

1) Romans 6:1-7

What was the new argument Paul addressed? Why would this argument be tempting for people to follow? In what way have Christians died to sin? What do we learn about baptism in this passage? What does it mean to live in newness of life? Do you feel like you are living in newness of life? Does your life show the example of being free from the bondage of sin?

2) Romans 6:8-14

How is the Christian life about a “death” experience? How is it about a “life” experience? What if being a Christian was just about one of these, and not the other? How would that change things? Of all those Jesus and His disciples raised from the dead in the New Testament, how many died again? What was different about Jesus’ experience? Why are we not to let sin reign in us? When it comes to dealing with sin in your life, what is the difference between being under the Law and under grace?

3) Romans 6:15-19

What was the next argument Paul addressed? How does it compare to the argument in 6:1? What are the choices when it comes to being a slave? What does a person’s life look like who is a slave to righteousness? What are the results of being a slave to righteousness? What does that mean?

4) Romans 6:20-23

What is the outcome of being a slave to sin? (What does a person earn for their sin?) What are the benefits of being a slave to righteousness? (What is the free gift of God?) How does understanding verse 20 change the way you approach non-Christians? Can you explain God’s free gift of grace to someone who doesn’t know about it? What evidence in your life points to whether you are a slave to sin or to righteousness?

For Sunday, September 25, 2011

2011-09-17T16:36:00.000-07:00

1) Romans 5:1

How is a Christian justified? Review: what does it mean to be justified? How does that bring peace with God? What (or Who) is the conduit of that peace? How is this kind of peace different than the peace the rest of the world talks about? Meditate on the peace in your relationship with God today. If you aren’t experiencing that peace, talk to Him about what sin needs to be confessed and repented of.

2) Romans 5:2-5

What does it mean to stand in grace? How would this be lived out in a Christian’s life? What does Paul mean by the hope of the glory of God? What makes us able to celebrate in our tribulations? Are you experiencing, or have you experienced, this? Make a flow chart of the progression Paul describes. How does hope in God not disappoint?

3) Romans 5:6-11

What was our condition when Christ died? Who did He die for? Do you agree or disagree with Paul’s statement in verse 7? How did God demonstrate His love for us? IN your opinion, why did Paul say God in this instance, and not Jesus? How are we justified through Jesus’ blood? How did we receive reconciliation with God? How could you explain this concept to someone else?

4) Romans 5:15-21

How are the gift (grace) and the transgression (sin) different? Can you write out Paul’s teaching in these verses as a mathematical expression? What were the results of the transgression? What were the results of the free gift? Can you think of evidence of God’s abundant grace to you today? Praise and thank Him for it.

For Sunday, September 18, 2011

2011-09-11T06:22:00.000-07:00

1) Romans 3:27-31

Why does Paul bring up the argument about boasting? Who would be boasting and why? What does it mean to be justified? What kinds of works (actions, rituals) were the Jews tempted to rely on for justification? Why was this a problem? According to Paul, how will God judge the circumcised? The uncircumcised? Why did Paul bring up the question about nullifying the Law? What would be the problem if the Law no longer applied? What is the connection between following the Law and faith?

2) Romans 4:1-8

Why did Paul choose Abraham as an example for the Jews about how to be justified? According to Paul, how was Abraham justified? What proof did he use in his argument? Which other person did Paul select as an example? Read Psalm 32:1-2.

3) Romans 4:9-15

What nationality was Abraham? Why does Paul dedicate so much time to circumcision? If he were choosing a modern day example of works (actions or rituals done to try to make oneself right with God), what might he choose? Why was it so important for the early church for Paul to explain this teaching in detail?

4) Romans 4:16-25

What is the connection between faith and grace in salvation? If following the Law still played a major role in salvation, how would life be different for modern Christians? How did Abraham show an extraordinary measure of faith? Did Abraham ever wobble in faith or lose faith in God’s promise? Why is the goal of faith righteousness? Thank God today for giving you the ability to have faith in Him.

For Sunday, September 11, 2011

2011-09-03T20:19:00.000-07:00

1) Romans 1:18-32

Where is the wrath of God revealed? How does nature teach us about God? Can you think of some specific examples of what nature teaches us about God? According to verse 23, what is the big “exchange” humans have made? What does a person give up when they choose this exchange? How did this exchange affect humanity? Individuals? Nature?

2) Romans 2:1-11

What does Paul teach about judgment in these verses? Why would this topic be so important to the early church? To us today? How does the kindness of God lead a person to repentance? What does a stubborn and unrepentant heart store up? What did Paul mean by verse 11? Why was this an important lesson for the early church? How should this lesson inform our behavior today?

3) Romans 3:7-20

What argument was Paul addressing in verse 7? Can you think of some modern examples of this twisted idea, that sinning more allows God to forgive more, bringing Him more glory? How would you answer someone who claimed this is true? In verses 10-18, how does Paul describe humanity’s sin problem? Who does it affect? What does Paul point to as the cause of this problem? What is the purpose of the law, according to Paul in verses 19-20?

4) Romans 3:21-26

What does Paul say in these verses about:

The Law?

Righteousness of God?

Sin?

Faith?

Justification? (What is justification? How is it accomplished? Why do we need it?)

For Sunday, September 4, 2011

2011-08-30T19:32:00.000-07:00

1) Romans 1:1-17

What did Paul say about himself in this passage? What did Pau claim God had singled him out to do? Have you ever felt “singled-out” for a task? What are the possible good feelings and fears about being “singled out” for God’s work?

2) Romans 1:1-17

What does Paul say about God and Jesus in this passage? What kinds of connection words does He use to describe Their relationship? What does this passage teach us about the Holy Spirit?

3) Romans 1:1-17

What does Paul say about the Roman Christians he was writing to? What did Pual want to give them? What did he plan for them to give him? Do you approach your relationships with other Christians this same way? How could those interactions be improved?

4) Romans 1:16-17

In how many ways was this statement revolutionary? Can you say these verses and mean it? What is the evidence in your life that you truly believe this? What does it mean to live by faith?

For Sunday, August 28, 2011

2011-08-24T05:56:00.000-07:00

1) Lamentations 1:1-6

When was Jeremiah writing this? What were his surroundings? What was he mourning?

2) Lamentations 3:1-18

How was Jeremiah feeling? How was he feeling about his relationship with God? What were his conclusions in verses 17-18? Have you ever felt this way? What were the circumstances? What is the solution?

3) Lamentations 3:19-26

According to Jeremiah, what is the solution for feeling helplessness or depression? List what he states about God. How would life be different if the opposite of these things were true about God? Which item on the list is most important to you right now? What does it take to wait on the Lord? What does it mean to wait silently? Why is the silence important?

4) Lamentations 3:31-32

How would focusing on the message of these verses change things for the exiles and Jeremiah?

Lamentations 3:37-41

How would awareness of verses 37-38 change the perspective of Jeremiah and the exiles? How would it change our perspective to focus on these truths during difficult times? What does it take to live out verses 40-41? Are you living like this?

For Sunday, August 21, 2011

2011-08-14T07:21:00.000-07:00

1) Jeremiah 50:1-5

Against whom have most of the prophecies in Jeremiah been given? Against whom was this prophecy given? How do you think the Israelites (remnant/exiles) would feel about this? Where would Babylon’s judgment come from? Does this passage say why? What would change for the Israelites at this time?

2) Jeremiah 50:6-10

How did God compare the people of Israel to lost sheep? In what ways? Who was to blame? Why did the adversaries of Israel say they weren’t guilty? How is the Lord the “habitation of righteousness?” (NAS verse 7) How is the Lord their “true pasture?” (NIV verse 7) During the exile, God told them to settle and make a life (Jer 29:4-7). What were the instructions once Babylon’s judgment started?

3) Jeremiah 50:11-13; 17-21; 24-25; 29-32

God sent Babylon to bring judgment on Judah for their idolatry. What do these verses say about the reason for the judgment on Babylon? Where did they go wrong in fulfilling God’s purpose for them? What do these verses say about Israel’s restoration? What do these verses teach us about God?

4) Daniel 5:1-4; 25-28; 30-31

Skim the entire chapter of Daniel 5. This is the story of Babylon’s judgment? What were they doing the day it came? How was God glorified through this judgment? Who was the new leader over the exiled Israelites?

For Sunday, August 14, 2011

2011-08-08T16:30:00.000-07:00

1) Jeremiah 41:17-18

What was the situation for the exiles? Where were they headed? Why?

Jeremiah 42:1-6

Why did they go to see Jeremiah? How did Jeremiah respond? What was their promise? What was their motive?

2) Jeremiah 42:7-12

How long did Jeremiah have to pray before God answered? Do you have a guess as to why it took that long? What message did God send to them? What was difficult about God’s instructions? What was God’s promise to them?

3) Jeremiah 42:13-18

What was the other choice of response God addressed to them? What would the consequences be of choosing this response? Why? How would this be a reversal of the Exodus, when God freed them from Egypt? What were they hoping for in Egypt? What did God say would be the reality of their time in Egypt?

4) Jeremiah 42:19-43:4

How did Jeremiah clarify the instructions? Why did Jeremiah confront them? How were they deceiving themselves? What did these people accuse Jeremiah of? What motivated them to make this accusation? What excuse did they give for their accusation? Have you ever fallen into this same pattern – saying you want to know the truth and God’s word, but really only wanting to hear support for your own decision? What were the consequences? What does a person who has chosen this kind of deception have to do to make things right with God again?

For Sunday, August 7, 2011

2011-08-02T12:57:00.000-07:00

1) Jeremiah 35:1-5

When was this prophecy given? (Early in Jeremiah’s ministry, mid-ministry or after the 3 deportations? See the timeline chart below.) What was Jeremiah supposed to do? What seems unusual about this request? Do you have a guess as to God’s purpose in this request?

2) Who were the Rechabites? Review 2 Kings 10, especially verses 15-25, 28.

3) Jeremiah 35:6-11

How did the Rechabites answer Jeremiah’s request? What were the reasons they gave? What were the Rechabite family rules? Do you have any guesses to the reasons behind these rules? According to verse 11, how had life changed for the Rechabites in recent times?

4) Jeremiah 35:12-17

How was God using the Rechabites as an object lesson for the people of Jerusalem and all Judah? What qualities did their response show? How did God describe the ways He had given His people instructions? How did He describe their responses? What was God’s conclusion about their relationship, according to verse 17?

Jeremiah 35:18-19

What was God’s promise to the Rechabites? Why did this seem unusual to the people of Judah? Would you be willing to request this promise from God for your family? What would be the cost?

For Sunday, July 31, 2011

2011-07-23T22:24:00.000-07:00

1) Jeremiah 31:1-6

How is the time period this prophecy is describing different than Israel/Judah pre-exile? In what way was the exile a “rest’ or “grace in the wilderness” for the people? What does verse 3 teach us about God’s view of us/ How does God draw people into relationship with Him? How has He drawn you? What was God’s hopeful promise to the exiles in verses 4-6?

2) Jeremiah 31:15-17

Who was Rachel? (See Genesis 29:9-20) Why were the exiles to have hope? Why did this hope require faith?

Jeremiah 31:27-30

What will be different about the new era God had planned? What does the saying in verse 29 mean? What might have motivated the exiles to say it? How does verse 30 add to it?

3) Jeremiah 31:31-34

How would the new covenant be different from the old? What does this covenant teach us about God? How was this prophecy fulfilled?

Ezekiel 26:22-28 (Another prophecy about the new covenant.)

Why did God enact a new covenant? How does this prophecy compare with Jeremiah 31:31-34?

4) Read about some other covenants: (In each passage, to whom did God speak?)

Genesis 9:9-11; Genesis 15:18-21; Exodus 19:3-6; Numbers 25:10-13; 2 Samuel 7:11-16; 2 Samuel 23:5

For Sunday, July 24, 2011

2011-07-19T12:59:00.000-07:00

1) Jeremiah 29:1-9

Who was Jeremiah to deliver this message to? Where was the audience? What was the message? How did these instructions oppose human logic or natural human emotions? What does it mean to seek the welfare of their city? What would that mean for us?

Jeremiah 29:10-14

What does God promise the exiles in this passage? How is this a good news/bad news message? What would happen before they would be restored?

2) Jeremiah 29:15-20

Why were they looking for a different prophet than Jeremiah? What was the danger in looking for a different prophet than the one God sent? What would be the consequences of their refusal to listen? When are you tempted to look for different instructions from God than what He’s already given?

Jeremiah 29:21-32

What did God have Jeremiah say about the false prophets? What would be their consequences?

3) Read about the 3 deportations to Babylon that took place.

Daniel 1:1-7; 2 Kings 24:10-14; 2 Kings 25:1-12

What was the progression in the deportation? Who was taken first? When did the most destruction occur?

Jeremiah 29:8-9

How can a person discern whether a prophet is a false prophet or a true prophet from God?

Deuteronomy 18:18-22

How would knowing this passage help the exiles? How could it help us?

4) Jeremiah 29:4-7

How do the following New Testament verses relate to God’s instructions to the exiles in Babylon?

Matthew 5:43-45; Romans 12:20-21; Titus 3:1-2

How do these instructions all relate to us?

For Sunday, July 17, 2011

2011-07-09T20:29:00.000-07:00

1) Jeremiah 22:1-9

Who was Jeremiah to deliver this message to? What was the message? What is justice? Gilead was known for lush growth and medicinal plants. What would the other nations learn about God when Judah was destroyed?

2) Jeremiah 22:10-19

What was God’s message about King Shallum (Jehoahaz)? King Jehoiakim? What charges did God describe against the kings of Judah? According to God, where did the kings put their focus?

Deuteronomy 17:18-20

How would things have been different if the kings had consistently obeyed these commands?

Jeremiah 22:13

Is your house built with righteousness and justice? What is the evidence?

3) Jeremiah 22:21-23

How do these verses apply to the other verses in this lesson? In what ways do these verses apply (or not) to your life?

What is the definition of justice? What do these verses say about a life of justice?

Exodus 23:6-7; Deuteronomy 16:20; Proverbs 21:15; Micah 6:8; Isaiah 61:8

4) One definition of justice is “the order that God seeks to reestablish in His creation where all people receive the benefits of life with Him. (Includes penalties assigned and blessings handed out.) Do you agree or disagree with this definition? How does it differ from other definitions of justice that you have heard?

What do these verses say about a life of justice?

Matthew 22:37-39; Mark 12:38-40; James 1:27; Matthew 25:31-46

For July 10, 2011

2011-07-02T13:45:00.000-07:00

1) Jeremiah 19:1-11

What was God’s message for Jeremiah to deliver? Why? Who did God command Jeremiah to have present for the message? How do you think the people felt about the message? About Jeremiah?

2) Jeremiah 20:1-4

What happened to Jeremiah, as a result of this prophecy? What was Jeremiah’s message to Pashur?

Jeremiah 20:7-11

How does Jeremiah respond to his circumstances? How does he feel about the message God has given him? What does he say about God in this passage?

3) Jeremiah 21:1-5

What were the officials asking Jeremiah to do? What was Jeremiah’s surprising answer? Was there any hope found in this message? How did God’s instructions compare with usual human wisdom? How would obeying God in this situation be an act of faith? How is obedience always an act of faith?

4) 2 Kings 24:17-20; 25:1-7

What further information do these verses give about the background of the circumstances of the passages of this lesson?

Isaiah 37:33-37

In Jeremiah 21:2, the officials mentioned “wonderful acts” of God. This Isaiah passage gives an example of a time God did rescue them. How was this time going to be different? Why?

For Sunday, July 3, 2011

2011-06-29T13:02:00.000-07:00

1) Jeremiah 18:1-4

Where did God send Jeremiah? What did Jeremiah see there? Retell it in your own words. What are some common uses for clay pots? Why is the term “clay pots” a fitting description for humans?

2) Jeremiah 18:5-12

What did Jeremiah learn about God’s character from this experience? How was Israel like the clay the Potter had been using? What was Jeremiah’s next message to the people supposed to be? According to the Lord, how would it be received?

3) Isaiah 29:16; 45:9; 64:8; Lamentations 4:2; Romans 9:19-24

What lessons do these passages add to the description of God as the Potter and people as the clay? What would be a more modern way of saying this same comparison? Why are we so tempted to challenge God’s work (the Potter’s work) in our lives? How are these verses encouraging? In what area of your life are you resistant to recognizing God’s work as Potter?

4) 2 Corinthians 4:7; Romans 9:20-21; 2 Timothy 2:20-26; Exodus 19:5

What do these verses have in common? What do these passages say about God’s relationship with humans? In what ways are you like an earthen vessel? In what ways are these verses encouraging? Challenging?

For Sunday, June 26, 2011

2011-06-18T22:18:00.000-07:00

1) Jeremiah 15:1-4; 2 Kings 21:1-18
What was God saying about His relationship with Judah in this passage? Why were they going to be an object of horror? What had Manasseh done, according to the 2 Kings 21:1-18 passage?

2) 2 Kings 23:26-27; 24:3-4; 2 Chronicles 33:1-9

These passages give more details about Manasseh’s sins. How would you describe Manasseh to someone who didn’t know about him? What were the consequences for Judah? If you were summarizing Manasseh’s reign in Judah in just a few words, what would you say?

3) Jeremiah 15:10-11, 15-18

How is Jeremiah feeling in this passage? Why is he feeling that way? What do you learn about Jeremiah’s relationship with God in this passage? What do you learn about the character of God from this passage?

What was God’s response to Jeremiah in verse 11? Have you ever felt like Jeremiah?

4) Jeremiah 15:19-21

How does God respond to Jeremiah’s concerns and discouragement? What does He promise Jeremiah? What does He warn Jeremiah about? What can we learn about following Jesus from this passage?

For Sunday, June 19, 2011

2011-06-11T19:59:00.000-07:00

1) Jeremiah 7:1-7
What was God’s command to Jeremiah? What did God have to say about the people’s word? About the people’s actions? What was God’s promise to them? What was their responsibility? List the “do” and “don’t do” instructions God gave them.

2) Jeremiah 7:8-11
How were they trusting in deceptive words? What was the Lord’s complaint about them in this passage? Can you think of a modern example of this behavior? Does verse 11 sounds familiar? See Matthew 21:13. Is there an area of your life currently where your words and actions don’t match?

3) Jeremiah 7:12-15

Where was Shiloh? What do you know about the history of Shiloh? See Joshua 18:1-5 and 1 Samuel 1:20-28 for more information about Shiloh and about the name of the tribe of Ephraim being synonymous with Israel, the Northern country of God’s people. What was the judgment God was declaring? Why? According to verse 13, did they have any excuse of ignorance of their sin? Why or why not?

4) Jeremiah 7:16-20

What surprising instructions did God give Jeremiah? Do you think God gives these instructions often? Why or why not? According to God’s description in verse 18, how much of Judah’s society was effected by idol worship? What does it mean to spite God? Where would the consequences of God’s wrath being poured out be evident?

For Sunday, June 12, 2011

2011-06-05T06:19:00.000-07:00

1) Jeremiah 3:1-5
How did God describe his relationship with Israel/Judah? Jeremiah’s language here is very descriptive, yet difficult to experience. What is the key issue described in verse 3? How is following other gods like adultery? Is there any adultery in your relationship with God?

2) Jeremiah 3:6-11
How did the Lord compare the attitudes and actions of Israel versus Judah? Which was punished first? What was each one punished for? According to verse 11, who was more unrighteous? Why? In what way is a Christian more accountable for their actions and attitudes than an nonbeliever?

3) Jeremiah 3:12-17

Which direction was Jeremiah supposed to direct his words? Why? How did God describe His anger? What was the condition (the thing they were required to do) to receive God’s grace? God made a promise about how things would be after they repented. What was it? (See verse 15) In what way would the people’s view of the Ark of the Covenant be different? (This is a challenging question we will cover in class.) What will the difference be in the way people live? Do you think this time has already come, or is yet to come?

4) Jeremiah 4:1-4

Where is the hope in this passage? Where is the responsibility? What did the Lord require of them in order for them to return to relationship with Him? What would happen if they didn’t do this? What did the Lord mean when He said to “circumcise yourselves…your heart” in verse 4? Is there any other words to describe this? Are there any areas of your life that are like hard, fallow ground before God?

For Sunday, June 5, 2011

2011-05-28T20:27:00.000-07:00

Bible Study preparation for Sunday, June 5, 2011.
1) Jeremiah 1:1-3

What do you know about Jeremiah? When did his ministry begin? When did it end? Jeremiah’s priestly ancestors may be connected to the story in 1Kings 2:26-27.

Jeremiah 1:4-6

According to verse 4, what was unique about Jeremiah? What did God call him to do? How did Jeremiah respond?

2) Jeremiah 1:7-10

What did God promise Jeremiah as he obeyed God’s calling? How did God respond to Jeremiah’s expressed weakness? What would be the characteristics of Jeremiah’s message, according to verse 10? What was the bad news? What was the good news? How would you feel about being given this kind of job in God’s kingdom?

3) Jeremiah 1:11-16

What did God show Jeremiah first? What do you think this sign meant? What did God show Jeremiah next? What did it represent? Was this good news or bad news? God said why this judgment would come. What did God say was the reason?

4) Jeremiah 1:17-19

What were Jeremiah’s next instructions? What would happen to him if he didn’t obey boldly? How did God prepare Jeremiah for this mission? What was God’s promise to Jeremiah? What does it mean for God to deliver someone? How or when has God delivered you?

For Sunday, May 29, 2011

2011-05-22T06:40:00.000-07:00

Bible Study preparation for Sunday, May 29, 2011.
1) Philemon 1-25
After reading this letter, what do you know about Philemon? Onesimus? What was their relationship? What was the problem? What did Paul suggesting for the solution? What other choices in handling the situation did he mention? What questions do you still have about the story?

2) Philemon 1-25
Onesimus means useful. How was Onesimus useful before “the situation?” How did Paul describe Onesimus’s usefulness at the time of the letter writing? What had changed? How are you useful to God’s kingdom?

3) Philemon 1-25

What does this story teach us about forgiveness? What was the responsibility of the one needing forgiveness? What was the responsibility of the one asked to forgive? How did Paul describe God’s view of forgiveness?

What does this story demonstrate about Paul’s view of slavery? About God’s view of slavery?

4) Philemon 1-25

How did Paul identify Onesimus in Colossians 4:9? How did Paul identify himself in Colossians 4:18? How did Paul describe his relationship with Philemon? What did Paul say about Onesimus’s debt? In what way was this an example of Christ? Who are you willing to sacrifice for, to pay their debt? How is this attitude related to witnessing?

For Sunday, May 22, 2011

2011-05-14T21:09:00.000-07:00

Bible Study preparation for Sunday, May 22, 2011.

1) Colossians 3:18-4:1
What do all of the instructions Paul gives in this passage have in common? What kinds of work can be done “heartily as for the Lord?” Does your work match this standard? How can your personal work be done for the Lord? How does remembering our Master in Heaven change how we treat each other?

2) Colossians 4:2-6
What does it mean to be devoted to prayer? What does that look like in a person’s life? Why is thanksgiving such an important part of prayer? What was Paul’s request for himself? What outsiders was Paul talking about in verse 5? How does Paul describe the way a Christian’s speech should be? Why might he have chosen this example comparison?

3) Colossians 4:7-18

How did Paul describe his ministry partners? What kind of encouraging words did he use? How did his descriptions show what he valued? What different kinds of roles did these mentioned people play in Paul’s ministry?

4) Colossians 4:2-6

What requests did Paul make for himself? Read the following passages to see how their prayers were answered: Philippians 1:12-14; Acts 28:30-31. How will this example of God’s faithfulness, even through difficult circumstances, affect your faith?

For Sunday, May 15, 2011

2011-05-08T06:29:00.000-07:00

1) Colossians 3:1-4
What did Paul mean by "seeking the things above?" (See Matthew 6:19-21; 33) What reason did Paul give that we, as Christians, should have a different mindset? How is a Christian's life "hidden with Christ in God?" Take a moment to imagine: What will it be like when Jesus returns, and we are revealed with Him in glory? Verse 4 says, "Christ, who is our life...." Is Christ your life? As a whole, or only as a part? What does it look like in a person's life when Christ truly is their life? What is the evidence?

2) Colossians 3:5-11
Paul uses this section to begin a contrast of the "earthly" life and life focused on things above. What is on the list Paul makes in verse 5? How are these things like idolatry? What does it mean to consider yourself dead to them? How could verses 6-7 help a Christian be a better witness? What is on Paul's second list in verse 8? Which of these is hardest for you to put aside? According to Paul, how is becoming a Christian like changing clothes? Who is included in this opportunity?

3) Colossians 3:12-17
How does it feel to know you were chosen by God for relationship? How does that feeling motivate you to act? In the list of traits or attitudes to "put on" in verses 12-13, which is hardest for you? Which is easiest? What do they all have in common? How has God shown each of these traits to you personally? What does Paul identify as the top most important quality in verse 14? Why?

4) Colossians 3:12-17
What does Paul mean in verse 15 by "let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts?" How is this accomplished? Where does God's peace come from (how do we experience it)? From verse 15-16, Paul mentions things that should be in you. What are they? What activities does Paul command? How do these activities contribute to the goals Paul is describing? Think of some examples of activities that can't fit into verse 17. What do the things that don't fit this standard have in common? Which is bigger: the do list or the do not list? Is there anything in your life right now that you can't do in the name of the Lord Jesus? What will do you do about it?

For Sunday, May 8, 2011

2011-04-30T20:36:00.000-07:00

1) Colossians 2:8

What kinds of things did Paul list that can take a person captive from the truth? What are some modern examples of these things? In what ways do these take people captive?

Colossians 2:9-15

How many times is the phrase “in Him” or “with Him” used in this passage? Why? What is Paul saying about circumcision in this passage? How does Paul describe baptism in this passage? How does Paul describe our sin debt in this passage?

2) Colossians 2:9-15

What does this passage teach about Jesus? What things are included in His job description? What does this passage say about Jesus’ relationship within the Trinity? What does this passage say about Jesus’ life on earth? In Heaven?

For more information, read Hebrews 1 and 1 Peter 3:18-22

3) Colossians 2:16-19

In this passage, Paul alludes to a lot of issues that were causing disunity within the church in Colossae. Make a list of these issues. What are some modern day things that could be added to this list? As Paul mentions in verse 18, how do these “extras” beyond Scripture defraud you of your prize? For more information about verses 18-19, see 1 Corinthians 12:12-26.

4) Colossians 2:20-28

What kinds of “extra” practices or activities do people today do to try to add to their spirituality? How did Paul describe these matters? Why are these activities of no value against fleshly indulgence? What was Paul’s main concern for the church in Colossae?

For Sunday, May 1, 2011

2011-04-24T06:55:00.000-07:00

Bible Study preparation for May 1, 2011.
1) Colossians 1:21-23
How did Paul describe a person’s life before redemption? After redemption? What about your story? How is your life different after Christ’s work in your life? How does describe the way Jesus presents you to God? What are the conditions for experiencing this?

2) Colossians 1:24-29
How was Paul suffering for their sake? What did Paul mean by saying “what was lacking in Christ’s afflictions?” Why was Paul pointing out His calling to the Colossians? What did Paul say was the purpose of His calling?

3) Colossians 1:24-29
What does Paul indicate is “the mystery?” In what way had it been hidden in ages past? What does Paul mean by “Christ in you, the hope of glory?” What is the hope of glory? Compare what Paul is saying in verse 29 with Philippians 4:13.

4) Colossians 2:1-7
According to Paul, how can people who have never met feel “knit together in love?” Why was unity so crucial to the church at that time? What was Paul concerned about for them? In verses 6-7, Paul describes steps in spiritual growth. Which step are you at right now?

For Sunday, April 24, 2011

2011-04-16T20:07:00.000-07:00

Bible Study preparation for April 24, 2011.

1) Acts 19:1-22

Name some events of Paul’s time in Ephesus. What happened to those who were trying to copy Paul’s acts without relying on a personal faith in God? How did God bring good out of this situation? Where was Paul planning to travel next?

2) Acts 19:23-20:1

Before Paul left, who started the riot? What was his motivation? How was peace re-established? If you were living in Ephesus at this time, how would these events affect your faith?

3) Colossians 1:1-12

How did Paul start the letter? What was Paul’s “missions” report (see v. 6)? List what Paul prayed for them. Which of these do you need most right now? Is your life bearing fruit? What kind of fruit? See Galatians 5:22-23. If you have made a personal commitment to God, confessing your sins, trusting Jesus’ sacrifice as the only answer, and making Him Lord (the Boss) of your life, thank God for qualifying you to share in His kingdom’s inheritance. What is that inheritance?

4) Colossians 1:13-20

Consider memorizing verses 13-14. How well do these verses summarize the entire basis for a Biblical worldview? Can you think of anything left out of these verses? What important truths does Paul teach about Jesus in this passage? What is the significance of each truth about Jesus that Paul lists?

For Sunday, April 17, 2011

2011-04-11T12:37:00.000-07:00

Philippians 4 is one of my favorite chapters. During class time this last week, we didn't get past the first 9 verses. So, we are going to spend one extra week plunging into this great message from God. To prepare for class, use the previous blog posting for this chapter and/or read Philippians 4 at least once a day every day until class time. Hope to see you there!

For Sunday, April 10, 2011

2011-04-02T19:19:00.000-07:00

Bible Study preparation for April 10, 2011.

1) Philippians 4:1-3 If Paul was writing verse 1 to you, how would it make you feel? What problem in the church does Paul reveal in verse 2? What does he remind them of in verse 3? How would remembering that help them? Philippians 4:4-7 When is it hard to rejoice? Why did Paul emphasize it so much? What does it mean to have a gentle or gracious spirit? What are you tempted to be anxious about? What does Paul suggest you substitute that response with? When in your life have you experienced the peace of God? How would you describe it to someone who hasn't experienced it?

2) Philippians 4:8-9 Make of a list the descriptor words Paul used for the kinds of things we should be thinking about. Which of the words stand out to you? Why? How does this list compare to the thoughts that usually fill your mind? Why does it matter? How are the instructions of verse 8 related to the instructions of verse 9? And how are both -- the thinking and the doing -- related to experiencing the peace of God?

3) Philippians 4:10-14 What was Paul's secret to contentedness? What does it mean to be content? How does it feel? What is the challenge of being content in humble circumstances? in prosperous circumstances? Where did Paul get his strength? In what area of your life is it difficult to feel content? What is God telling you about it in this passage? Matthew 6:19-21 How does the Jesus' lesson in this passage impact your approach to contentedness?

4) Philippians 4:15-23 What did Paul want them to know about their gift to him? Why was he reluctant to receive gifts from the churches? Re-read verse 19. How does this relate to Paul's teaching about contentedness? How many of your needs will God supply? What kinds of needs will He supply for? To what measure will He supply for your needs? Re-read and rest in this verse today. Pray the truth of verse 19 for someone else.

For Sunday, April 3, 2011

2011-03-27T07:38:00.000-07:00

Bible Study preparation for April 3, 2011.

1) Philippians 3:1-6 Who were the opponents Paul was warning against in this passage? What was wrong with their teaching? In the category of human works, what was on Paul’s resume? What “human” things would you be tempted to rely on in your spiritual life instead of God?

2) Philippians 3:5-11 What did Pula think of his “human” resume? What did Paul focus on as #1 in value? What is the difference between righteousness from the Law and righteousness through faith in Christ? How have you experienced the power of Christ’s resurrection in your life? Have you experienced the fellowship of His suffering? How is this different from ordinary human suffering?

3) Philippians 3:12-16 What did Paul compare the Christian life to? How did Paul measure his Christian journey? What did he forget? What did he reach for? How well does your life compare to the standard of verse 16?

4) Philippians 3:17-21 How does Paul describe opponents to Christ in this passage? How did he feel about his opponents? How can you tell? What warning did Paul give them about these opponents? According to Paul, what are we waiting for?

For Sunday, March 27, 2011

2011-03-19T18:05:00.000-07:00

Bible Study preparation for March 27, 2011.

1) Philippians 2:12-18
What does it mean to “work out” your salvation? What actions would that involve? Why is verse 14 so hard to obey? In what area of your life is it the hardest? How does Paul describe the effects of following through with verse 14? What does Paul say to rejoice in?

2) Philippians 2:15-16
What does it mean to be lights in the world? What does Paul say about it?
John 8:12; Matthew 5:14-16
What did Jesus teach about being light in the world?
1 John 1:5-7
Light is a theme throughout 1 John. How does John’s teaching about being light add to your understanding of the concept?

3) Philippians 2:19-24
What plan did Paul have in mind for Timothy? Why? What was the ministry relationship between Paul and Timothy? What was Paul waiting for before sending Timothy?

4) Philippians 2:5-30
Who was Epaphroditus? What is the story told in these verses about Epaphroditus’s gift of service? What happened to him? How does Pula’s words at the end of verse 30 effect the telling of the story?

For Sunday, March 20, 2011

2011-03-13T07:03:00.000-07:00

Bible Study preparation for Sunday, March 20, 2011.

1) Philippians 1:27-30
What does it mean to "conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ?" Who many ways did Paul emphasize the issue of unity in these verses? According to Paul, why was unit y so important? Is that still true for Christians today? How did Paul view suffering as related to His relationship with Christ? with other Christians?

2) Philippians 2:1-5
Paul says a lot of "ifs" in verse 1. Is this because he isn't sure, or is he trying to emphasize something else? How are the "ifs" related to relationships and unity within the church? When is living up to this standard easiest for you? When is it hardest?

3) Philippians 2:5-11
Draw a diagram showing the decisions and actions of Jesus that Paul highlighted in these verses. What stands out to you in this description of Jesus? What might have happened if Jesus decided to hold tightly to his identity as God instead of choosing to allow Himself to be lowly? Spend time confessing Jesus as Lord in prayer right now. Is He really your boss?

4) What does each of the following passages tell us about Jesus' view and experience of humility?
Luke 2:16
Matthew 4:5-7; Matthew 8:20; Matthew 26:39
John 6:38
Matthew 5:3-11
Which of these examples do you need to follow more closely in your life?

For Sunday, March 13, 2011

2011-03-05T18:49:00.000-08:00

Bible Study preparation for March 13, 2011.
1) Philippians 1:12-18
What was Paul’s circumstances while he was writing this letter?
What conflict were the Philippian believers facing?
In modern days, what are some of the “wrong motives” of some people who preach about Jesus Christ? What would the “right motives” be? What word or words would you use to describe Paul’s attitude in this passage?

2) Philippians 1:18-20
What is the focus of Paul’s life? Which of his words prove this? What evidence is there beyond his words? What does it mean for Christ to be exalted or highly honored in a person’s body? When Paul said deliverance, what did he mean? Note how verse 20 ends.

3) Philippians 1:21-26
What did Paul mean in verse 21? What was the personal dilemma he was discussing in these verses? Can you identify with his feelings expressed in this passage? What did Paul see as his purpose for remaining on earth? How can having purpose change a person’s attitude and motivation in life?

4) Philippians 1:27-30
What does it mean to conduct yourself in a manner worthy of the gospel? Can any Christian achieve this? How? What goals did Paul have for the Philippian Christians? Can you sum up these goals in one or two words? What positive way did Paul view the Christians’ opponents? How did Paul instruct them to view suffering? How do you view suffering in your own life?

For Sunday, March 6, 2011

2011-02-27T07:09:00.000-08:00

Bible Study preparation for March 6, 2011.

1) Philippians 1:1-11
Who was the letter from?
How did Paul describe his relationship with the people of the church of Philippi?
How did he turn his greeting into a blessing?
How can we do that for each other?

2) Review some events that happened in Philippi:
Acts 16:12-40
What stands out to you in this passage?
Who was Lydia?
What was the attitude and actions of the crowd in Philippi?
How would you describe Paul and Silas’s attitudes and actions while in the jail?
What was their main focus and goal?
What can we learn from their example?

3) Philippians 1:1-11
What does Paul say about prayer in this passage?
What did he pray for them?
Who can you pray this for?
Pray these verses for that person now.

4) Philippians 1:7-11
What does it mean to be a partaker of grace with someone?
How is the affection of Jesus Christ different from normal human affection?
How can love abound in knowledge and discernment?
What is the fruit of righteousness? See James 3:18
Is the fruit of righteousness evident in your life?

For Sunday, February 27, 2011

2011-02-20T15:54:00.000-08:00

Bible Study preparation for February 27, 2011.

1) 2 Kings 24:1-4

What happened to the people of Judah?

According to this passage, why did it happen?
2 Kings 21:1-9

What were the sins of Manasseh, referred to in 24:3?

2) 2 Kings 24:10-14

What happened to King Jehoiachin? Who went with him?

Who was left in Judah?
What else did the Babylonians take with them?
How do you think the people of Judah felt at this moment?

3) 2 Kings 24:17-20

How did Zedekiah become king?

How is he described?
What was his response to the king of Babylon?

2 Kings 25:1-7

What were the consequences of Zedekiah’s rebellion?

What were the consequences for Zedekiah?

4) 2 Kings 25:8-21

Describe what Jerusalem must have looked like by the time the Babylonians finished.

How do you think the exiled people of Judah felt in this moment?

How do you think the people left in Judah felt in this moment?

For Sunday, February 20, 2011

2011-02-13T06:48:00.000-08:00

1) 2 Kings 18:1-8
How was Hezekiah described?
What was the history of the bronze serpent? See Numbers 21:4-9.
Name some of Hezekiah’s victories.

2) 2 Kings 18:13-18
What was the new challenge for Judah?
2 Kings 18:28-37
What was the message of Rabshakeh, the King of Babylon’s messenger?
What did he say about Hezekiah? About God?
What was he trying to convince the people to do?

3) 2 Kings 19:1-7
What was Hezekiah’s response to this challenge from Babylon?
Who did Hezekiah turn to for help?
What was Isaiah’s message to Hezekiah?
2 Kings 19:14-20
What did Hezekiah do with the threatening letter from Babylon?
How did Hezekiah start his prayer? What can we learn from this?
What does it mean to be heard by God, like described in 19:20?

4) 2 Kings 19:29-37
What did the prophecy promise Hezekiah and the people of Judah?
How much of this was good news? How much was bad news?
How did God fulfill the prophecy?
What happened to Sennacherib?

For Sunday, February 13, 2011

2011-02-06T06:22:00.000-08:00

Bible Study preparation for February 13, 2011.

1) 2 Kings 17:1-6
Who was king of Israel during this time period?
Of Judah?
Why did Shalmaneser (king of Assyria) decide to capture and imprison Hoshea?

What were the consequences of this choice?

2) 2 Kings 17:7-13
Make a list of the offenses of the people of Israel against God.

What stands out to you in this list?

What did God have to say about their behavior?

Before the exile, what did He do about their behavior?

3) 2 Kings 17:13-14
This is a list of SOME of the prophetic messages God sent to Israel (and Judah) to call them back into relationship with Him. Choose 3-4 to read.
Isaiah 20:3
Jeremiah 13:1-2
Ezekiel 4:1-3
Isaiah 1:21
Jeremiah 9:21
Amos 4:1
Read Jeremiah 7:26; 17:23; 19:15.
How did Jeremiah describe "God's people?"

How well did this description fit their behavior?

How well does it fit your own behavior?

4) 2 Kings 17:15-23
Make another list of the offenses of the people again God.

What does it mean to follow vanity?

For Sunday, February 6, 2011

2011-01-30T06:29:00.000-08:00

Bible Study preparation for Sunday, February 6, 2011.

1) 2 Kings 9:1-10

What assignment did Elisha give the “son of the prophets?”

What were the dangers of this assignment?

What was the mission given to Jehu from God?

2 Kings 9:11-16
What was the attitude of the people (servants of Jehu) about the prophet?

Starting at verse 14: Who was where? Sketch a diagram to figure it out.

2) 2 Kings 9:17-20

What did the actions of the watchmen show about their character? About Jehu’s potential support?

Should you be offended if someone says you drive like Jehu, son of Nimshi?

2 Kings 9:21-24
What happened? What do you think God will say about Jehu’s methods?

3) 2 Kings 9:30-37

What were the consequences for Jezebel?

Based on Jehu’s response, what was his attitude toward Elisha as God’s prophet?

2 Kings 10:6-11

How did Jehu complete God’s judgment on Ahab’s family?

4) 2 Kings 10:18-19

What was Jehu’s next plan? Why?

2 Kings 10:27-31

What were the final results for the temple of Baal?

What did God commend Jehu for?

How did Jehu still sin against God?

For Sunday, January 30, 2011

2011-01-23T21:41:00.000-08:00

Bible Study preparation for Sunday, January 30, 2011.

1) 2 Kings 6:6-23

Who was warring against Israel? Why? Can we tell from this passage?

What kind of “intelligence gathering” was influencing the outcome of the battles?

How did the king of Aram react to these events?

What was Elisha’s helper’s response to the situation? What was Elisha’s response?

How did Elisha use God’s power to protect himself and his servants in this situation? What else did his actions accomplish?

2) 2 Kings 6:24-7:2
What was the problem in Samaria? What was the cause of this problem?

How desperate had the situation gotten? Who did the king blame?

What was Elisha’s response to this situation? What was his prophecy? How likely did it seem to those around him?

3) 2 Kings 7:3-10

Who are the main characters of this passage? Why were they unlikely heroes? What was their initial problem? What was their plan?

What did they find? How had it happened?

What was their first response? What was their realization about the good news?

4) 2 Kings 7:9-20
What was the king’s first reaction to the report of the lepers? What does this show about his consideration of Elisha’s prophecy?

How much of Elisha’s prophecy was fulfilled? In what ways?

How did the people respond to this promise fulfilled? What is noticeably missing in their response?

What do you think of the new blog design?

2011-01-15T21:18:00.000-08:00

Post your comments and ideas here, email me, or tell me at church.
If you see this and tell me before 9PM on January 30th, I will give you a prize!

For Sunday, January 23, 2011

2011-01-15T21:13:00.000-08:00

Bible Study preparation for Sunday, January 23, 2011.

1) 2 Kings 5:1-7
Who was Naaman? Where was he from? What was his success? What was his weakness? What was the role of the servant girl in this story? How is God using your situation and influence to draw others to Himself? What did Naaman take with him for the journey? Why do you think he packed these things? How did the king of Israel respond to the letter?

2) 2 Kings 5:8-14
What was Elisha’s response to the king’s actions? According to Elisha, God’s prophet, what was the purpose in this entire event? Are you tearing your clothes over events God may have planned for another purpose? Pray for fresh perspective.
How did Elisha answer Naaman’s visit and request? Why? What was Naaman’s response? What do you think caused him to act this way? How well did Elisha’s remedy work?

3) 2 Kings 5:15-19
What did Naaman learn through his healing experience? What has God healed in your life? What did it teach you about God and His relationship with you? In your opinion, what were Naaman’s motives in offering the gift? Where they the same or different from his first visit to Elisha? Why wouldn’t Elisha take the gifts? Why did Naaman ask for dirt? And what request did he make? In what way was Elisha’s response to him perfectly fitting?

4) 2 Kings 5:20-27
Who was Gehazi? What was his problem? What was his attitude? How did his actions concerning the “gift” reveal his awareness of his guilt? Put yourself in Gehazi’s shoes in the moment of verse 25. What emotions and/or physical sensations do you think he felt? Have you ever had one of these moments? How did Elisha know what he had done? What were Gehazi’s consequences? Would you rate these consequences as fair or extreme?

For Sunday, January 16, 2011

2011-01-08T20:49:00.000-08:00

Bible study lesson preparation for Sunday, January 16, 2011.

Theme: Choose Life

1) Deuteronomy 30:11-20

How did Moses describe the Law God had given them? What were the acceptable excuses for not obeying the Law? What did Moses mean when he said, “Choose life/” How does choosing live effect a person’s behavior and choices?

2) These passages focus on King Josiah’s family tree:

Grandpa – King Manasseh

2 Kings 21:1-6, 9, 16

What was Manasseh’s attitude toward life? How did Manasseh’s choices measure up to Moses’ command to choose life? (See Deuteronomy 30:19)

Father – King Amon

2 Kings 21:19-24

How was King Amon’s life described? What was his attitude toward life? Based on Josiah’s family tree, what would you predict to be his attitude toward life?

3) 2 Kings 22:1-8

How was Josiah’s life described? What were the events that led to discovery of the copy of the Law?

2 Kings 22:10-13

What was Josiah’s response to hearing the Book of the Law read aloud?

4) 2 Kings 23:1-3

What did Josiah do after hearing the Book of the Law? What were Josiah’s actions that displayed his choice for life?

Skim 2 Kings 23:4-15; 19-24

Verse 25 – How did Josiah stand apart as king? Does your life stand apart in these ways? What evidence in your life demonstrates your commitment to choose life?

For Sunday, January 9, 2011

2011-01-02T06:26:00.000-08:00

Bible Study lesson preparation for January 9, 2011

1) 1 Kings 16:29-34
How was Ahab described? List some of the evidences of Ahab's evil.
1 Kings 17:1-6
How did Elijah stand up to Ahab? What was God's response in Elijah's life? What does this teach us about the character of God?

2) 1 Kings 17:7-24
How did God take care of Elijah? Describe the miracles that happened in this passage. What do these miracles teach us about the character of God?

3) 1 Kings 18
What was Elijah's new message for Ahab? How did Obadiah respond to the mission Elijah gave him? What was Ahab's reaction to Elijah's challenge? What stands out to you from the challenge scene (on Mt. Carmel)?

4) 1 Kings 19
What happened to Elijah next, after the big victory? How did God respond to Elijah's actions? What does this teach us about the character of God? In verse 9, what was the reality of Elijah's answer; what was he doing there spiritually? emotionally? physically? How did God reveal Himself to Elijah? What was Elijah's next important task for God's kingdom?

For Sunday, January 2, 2011

2010-12-25T20:45:00.000-08:00

Lesson preparation for January 2, 2011!

1) 1 Kings 11:41-43
What happened? How was Solomon described?
12:1-5
Who are the characters? What is the situation? How did the people describe Solomon's rule? Why?

2) 1 Kings 11:26-40
Why was Jeroboam in Egypt? Why was God bringing this judgment on Solomon? What did God, through the prophet, promise Jeroboam? How did that promise compare to Solomon's original promise?

3) 1 Kings 12:6-11
Who did Rehoboam go to first for advice? What was their advice? Who did he go to next? What explanations can you think of to explain the differences in advice?

4) 1 Kings 12:12-15
How did Rehoboam answer the people? What is the reason given in this passage for this turn of events?
1 Kings 12:16-24
How did the people respond? What were the consequences for Jeroboam? Rehoboam? Israel? How did God intervene, according to verse 24?

For Sunday, December 26, 2010

2010-12-18T18:42:00.000-08:00

Lesson prep for Sunday, December 26, 2010.

1) 1 Kings 10:23-25
Based on this passage, describe King Solomon. How did he become this way? (See 1 Kings 3:3-15) What were the consequences of God's gifts to him? What were the conditions of this promise?

2) 1 Kings 11:1-3
Describe Solomon's home life. How does this fit with what you already know about Solomon? Could he claim to be ignorant of the consequences of his choice? Why or why not? What were the consequences of his choice?

3) 1 Kings 11:4-8
How many idols are mentioned in this passage? What was Solomon's motivation in building the high places and joining in the worship of idols? How do your human relationships effect your relationship with God? Are there any relationships that are coming between you and God? What do you need to do about it?

4) 1 Kings 11:9-13
What was God's response to Solomon's choices and actions? How many times had God appeared to Solomon? What were the consequences going to be for Solomon? For all of Israel? Why did God reserve part of Israel?

For Sunday, December 19, 2010

2010-12-11T22:01:00.000-08:00

Lesson prep for Sunday, December 19, 2010.

1) Mathew 1:18-25
What was God’s purpose in sending Jesus to earth? Jesus can save you from the power and consequences of sin. Name some of the sins Jesus saved you from. Do you have any unconfused sin in your life right now? Bring it to God today. Thank God for forgiveness through Jesus.
1 John 1:9

2) Mathew 1:18-25
What other name was given to Jesus? In how many ways is Jesus “God with us?” Tell God how much that means to you today.

3) Mathew 2:1-12
How did the wise men know they had found the One for whom they were searching? What gifts did they give? What gifts are you giving God this Christmas?

4) Mathew 2:13-18
What is your response to this part of the Christmas story? What other Bible stories come to mind when you read this passage? How can this story help us trust God even when He doesn’t make sense?

For Sunday, December 12, 2010

2010-12-04T19:35:00.000-08:00

Lesson prep for Sunday, December 12, 2010.

1) 1 Kings 8:12-21
What background information do we learn from this passage about the events unfolding? What did Solomon highlight about God’s character in this blessing? Solomon viewed his personal identity and accomplished as connected to God’s work. How? Do you see this kind of connection in your life?

2) 1 Kings 8:22-30
What did Solomon say about to God about God in his prayer? What were the conditions of the promise God gave David about his descendants? What promise of God would you ask to be confirmed in your life? How would you describe Solomon’s attitude in verse 27? What did Solomon request of God in relation to the Temple? In verse 30, what did Solomon identify as the people’s greatest needs from God?

3) Skim 1 Kings 8:31-53.
What are the repeating words in this passage? What does Solomon repeatedly ask of God? Why was this request so important? What actions of the people did Solomon refer to? Who did Solomon pray for? How many sin scenarios did Solomon list?

4) 1 Kings 8:54-61
How was Solomon’s prayer posture described? In verse 56, what did he identify as God’s gift to His people? What effect does God’s faithfulness have on your prayer life? In verse 58, how did Solomon describe the initiation of relationship between God and people? What were Solomon’s goals for the people? How did Solomon view Israel’s role in God’s kingdom around the world? What does it mean to be wholly devoted to God?

For Sunday, December 5, 2010

2010-11-28T16:08:00.000-08:00

Lesson prep for Sunday, December 5, 2010.

1) 1 Kings 1
Who are the main characters mentioned in this chapter? Who was king? Who became king? What obstacles were in his way? How would you describe the way the new king treated his brother in verses 52-53?

2) 1 Kings 2:1-12
What were the main instructions David gave to Solomon? What warnings did David give Solomon? Why? In verses 2-4, David passed along the promise God had made to him. What promises of God have you shared with someone else recently?

3) 1 Kings 3:3-15
What did God ask Solomon? How would you have answered? How did Solomon answer? Why did this answer please God so much? Is verse 14 a promise to everyone, or a specific promise to Solomon? What did Solomon do next after this encounter with God?

4) 1 Kings 3:16-28
Can you think of other stories over time that have been based on this story? How would you have handled this situation if you were Solomon? How did Solomon handle it? What was the response of all the people who heard about it? Do you trust God to provide the wisdom you need? See James 1:5-8.

For Sunday, November 28, 2010

2010-11-21T06:10:00.000-08:00

Lesson prep for Sunday, November 28, 2010.

1) Ephesians 6:10-17
Paul uses this imagery in small sections of other letters. How do you think he came up with this idea?
Isaiah 59:15-20
The Isaiah 59 passage may have been his example. What do these verses say about the Lord as a warrior? How does the time and society described in this passage compare to today?

2) Ephesians 6:10-17; Hebrews 4:12
Which is the only offensive weapon Paul listed? What happens when Christians try to use other methods of offense?
Luke 4:1-13
What does Jesus’ example show us about God’s Word as a weapon?

3) Ephesians 6:18-20
What instructions does Paul give about prayer? What requests did he ask for himself?
Luke 18:1-8
What did Jesus emphasize in this parable about prayer? How does your prayer life measure up to the example he gave?

4) Ephesians 6:21-22
Who was Tychicus? See Colossians 4:7; 2 Timothy 4:12; and Titus 3:12.
Ephesians 6:23-24
What are the key words of Paul’s blessing on the Ephesians? Which do you need most right now?

For Sunday, November 21, 2010

2010-11-14T15:53:00.000-08:00

Lesson prep for Sunday, November 21, 2010.

1) Ephesians 6:1-3
What does it mean to "honor your mother and father" as an adult? What is it about obeying and honoring your parents that leads to verse 3 being true in your life? Evaluate your treatment and attitude toward you parents: does it follow God's standard?

2) Ephesians 6:4
In this verse, the word translated for "Fathers" actually is generic for parents.
In what ways do you exasperate your children? In what ways are you bringing them up in the training and instruction of the Lord?
Hebrews 12:5-11
According to Hebrews 12:5-11, what is the goal of discipline?

3) Ephesians 6:5-9
What is surprising about this teaching? How do verses 6-7 relate to the work place? Do your attitudes and activities at work meet this standard? What is surprising about verse 9? How would it effect a master's treatment of a slave (or an employer to an employee) if they are God-fearing?

4) Ephesians 6:1-9
Examine your own family and workplace relationships. How do your relationships measure up to Paul's teaching? Which of these teachings point to an area for your to work on?

For Sunday, November 14, 2010

2010-11-06T19:41:00.000-07:00

Lesson prep for Sunday, November 14, 2010.

1) Ephesians 5:22-33
What was Paul’s main topic in this passage? Why was this teaching so important for the Christians in Ephesus? How does our society’s view of marriage compare to Paul’s teaching?

2) Ephesians 5:22-33
What standard does Paul set for how wives should love their husbands? For how husbands should love their wives? In what ways has verse 22 been misrepresented over history? How does that compare with Christ’s example described in Ephesians 5:1-2?

3) Ephesians 5:22-33
In what ways are the relationship between husband/wife and Christ/church the same? How should this identity, as the bride of Christ, effect how a church acts? In what ways does our church act like the bride of Christ?

4) Ephesians 5:22-33
What does it mean to submit? What does it not mean? What is the purpose of submitting, according to Paul? If Christian marriages all followed this teaching, what would be the effects in our church and society?

For Sunday, November 7, 2010

2010-10-30T21:04:00.000-07:00

Lesson prep for Sunday, November 7, 2010. Also posted on nabc-prepared.blogspot.com.

1) Ephesians 5:15-21
What stands out to you in these verses? What questions do you have? Which of these instructions is easy for you? Which is hardest?

2) Ephesians 5:15-17
Why does it matter how we choose to live? What does Paul mean by "making the most of every opportunity?" How can you understand what the Lord's will is? What is the difference between God's general will for all people and God's specific will of reach situation or individual?

3) Ephesians 5:18-20
How is being filled with the Holy Spirit different than being drunk? Why do you think Paul contrasted the two? When was the last time you encouraged someone like it is described in verse 19? How is your thankfulness rating today? this week? What are you having difficulty giving thanks for?

4) Ephesians 5:21
What does it mean to submit to one another? Who is it talking about? Why should we?
Romans 12:10; Galatians 5:13; Philippians 2:3-4; 1 Peter 5:5

For Sunday, October 31, 2010

2010-10-24T06:23:00.000-07:00

Lesson prep for Sunday, October 31, 2010.

1) Ephesians 5:1-2
What does it mean to be an imitator of God? How are children imitators? How well does that describe how we imitate God?
Matthew 5:48; Leviticus 19:8
Are these commands encouraging or discouraging to you? Why?

2) Ephesians 5:3-7
What does Paul say to avoid in this passage? Why? What does he say we should replace these things with? How does being immoral, impure or greedy make a person an idolater?

3) Ephesians 5:8-14
What does it mean to live as children of the light?
1 John 1:5-7; 2:9-11; John 3:19-21; Matthew 5:14-16
What characterizes the life of light? The life of darkness?

4) Ephesians 5:1-14
What are the difficulties of following Paul’s instructions in this passage in our culture today? What does the passage say about humor?
Proverbs 17:22
Does God approve of humor? What kinds? How does the humor you participate in match God’s standards?

Class Gathering -- Service Project

2010-10-19T17:12:00.000-07:00

Class Gathering -- Service Project

Friday, October 22, 2010
Meet at the church at 7pm
Packing party for the Ethiopia Mission Trip team

Come and help them pack the donations into suitcases! A project for the entire family!

Hope to see you there!
Any questions? Call Joy or Leanne, or comment below.

For Sunday, October 24, 2010

2010-10-17T06:45:00.000-07:00

Lesson prep for Sunday, October 24, 2010.

1) Ephesians 4:17-19
How did Paul describe the lifestyles of the Gentiles that don’t have relationship with God? What made them lose all sensitivity to questions of right and wrong? What features of your lifestyle might others point to as evidence that you are a Christian, no longer following the way Paul described?

2) Ephesians 4:20-24
How did you come to know Christ? In what way has God made a new attitude in your mind since you’ve been following Him? What does it mean that you were created to be like God in true righteousness? In holiness?

3) Ephesians 4:25-28
What “do not” instructions does Paul give in these 4 verses? Which is hardest for you? What reasoning does he give as to why you should get rid of these things in your life?

4) Ephesians 4:29-32
What is unwholesome talk? What standard measurement of effects did Paul give for deciding if talk is unwholesome? What does it mean to grieve the Holy Spirit? In verse 31, what does this list of behaviors have in common? Which is hardest for you to get rid of? Who does verse 32 point us to as a guide for how to treat each other?

For Sunday, October 17, 2010

2010-10-09T21:57:00.000-07:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, October 17, 2010

1)Ephesians 4:1-6
What does it mean to live a life worthy of your calling? Which of the characteristics in verse 2 is hardest for you? How does knowledge of the issues mentioned in verses 4-5 help us follow through with the instruction in verse 3? When is this hard? When is it easiest?

2) Ephesians 4:7-10
Who is Paul talking about? What is the main point of these verses? Draw a picture of his explanation in these verses to get a clearer idea of what he meant.
Ephesians 4:11-13
What is the goal of the spiritual gifts God has distributed to Christians? What is the difference between unity in faith and unity in knowledge? How should we measure Christian maturity, according to Paul? What builds up God’s people? What tears us down?

3) Ephesians 4:14-16
When do you feel like an infant in your spiritual life? What issues or people feel like the winds that toss you around? How does speaking the truth in love help us grow up in Christ? What holds the Body of Christ (the Church – Christians) together?

4)Psalm 133:1; Acts 4:32; Philippians 2:2-4
What is Christian unity? Why is it so important? What does our witness say about the character of God and Jesus when the church is full of disunity? How is unity accomplished? See the following verses for more ideas about participating in Christian unity.
Colossians 3:15; 1 Corinthians 12:13; Romans 12:3-6

For Sunday, October 10, 2010

2010-10-04T19:18:00.000-07:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, October 10, 2010

1) Ephesians 3:14-21
What did Paul pray for them? What does this passage say about each of the following: strength? Power? Faith? Love?

2) Ephesians 3:14-21
According to Paul, how does God strengthen Christians? IN what areas of your life do you need spiritual strengthening most right now? IN verse 14, Paul says “for this reason.” For what reason? Read over Ephesians 3:10-13 and identify the reason Paul choose to pray this passage for the Ephesian Christians.

3) Ephesians 3:14-21
How does God’s love surpass knowledge? What measurements describe God’s love? Can you think of other Bible passages that describe God’s love? What does it mean to be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God?

4) Ephesians 3:20-21
Meditate on these verses, thinking of the meaning of one phrase at a time:

God is able.

God is able to do.

God is able to do immeasurably (above and beyond).

God is able to do immeasurably (above and beyond) all that we ask.

God is able to do immeasurably (above and beyond) all that we ask or imagine.

What are the implications of this on our prayer lives? Do you pray like you believe this is true? (See Ephesians 3:12)

For Sunday, October 3, 2010

2010-09-26T07:54:00.000-07:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, October 3, 2010

1) Ephesians 2:11-22
What potential church problem was Paul addressing in this passage? What was his main point? What stands out to you most in this passage? Even though our church isn’t divided by Jews and Gentiles, what other things could divide us?

2) Ephesians 2:11-13
In what way were Gentiles “far away” before Jesus came? In what situation did that leave them? Have you ever felt without hope and without God in the world? How does the blood of Christ make those who were far away, now near?

3) Ephesians 2:14-18
Where does your peace come from? How was Jesus Himself the Source of peace between Jews and Gentiles in the church? How did Jesus accomplish this? How would this knowledge change the relationship of those who were divided by heritage? What does verse 18 teach about the work of the Holy Spirit?

4) Ephesians 2:19-22
How did Paul describe their relationship after Jesus’ work on earth was accomplished? What was to be the foundation of their faith and church? How did Paul describe the purpose of the church in this passage? What activities or action help us become “built together” in Christ?

For Sunday, September 26, 2010

2010-09-21T12:26:00.000-07:00

I am not posting a "normal" blog study guide this week, because we will be having a guest speaker in our class on Sunday. The topic will be missions and how to better support our missionaries. So, don't forget to pray for Randy, and come to hear the guest speaker!

While we skip one week's study, we don't want to get distracted from our lessons in Ephesians. So, I will post a few readings below with questions, for those of you who use these readings as part of your daily Bible study materials.

Ephesians 1:15-23
What are you doing this week to know God better? How is His mighty resurrection power been evident in your life this week? Spend a few minutes focused on the hope we have in Christ.

Ephesians 2:1-10
How are you approaching God lately -- by faith or trying to earn your way there by works? How has God shown His rich mercy to you lately? What are the good works God has planned for you today?

Ephesians 2:11-22
If we were dividing people up into two categories, what would they be? Is Jesus Himself your peace today? What does it mean to you to be a fellow citizen in God's kingdom? How does it make your life different?

Ephesians 3:1-13
What is the mystery of God? What is the mystery about Christ? Look at verse 12. Do you approach God's throne with confidence and freedom? Why or why not?

For Sunday, September 19, 2010

2010-09-11T21:32:00.000-07:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, September 19, 2010

1) Ephesians 2:1-10
When you read this passage, what stands out to you? What does this passage say about the past? What does it say about the future? Make a timeline of salvation, detailing God’s plan for each step.

2) Ephesians 2:1-3
How did Paul describe a person’s life before they became a follower of Christ? Who is the ruler of the kingdom of the air? What are the main characteristics of this lifestyle, according to Paul? Why is it good for your Christian witness to remember your life before/without Christ?

3) Ephesians 2:4-7
Name the aspects of God’s character detailed in this passage. What was the God’s purpose in this plan (see verse7)? How have you experienced the incomparable riches of God’s grace in your life?

4) Ephesians 2:8-10
How are people saved, according to Paul? Have you ever tried to reach God a different way? What makes us tempted to boast, or why do we boast? Why did God created us? When were the preparations made for God’s plan for you?

For Sunday, September 12, 2010

2010-09-06T20:37:00.000-07:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, September 12, 2010

1) Ephesians 1:15-23
What was Paul’s main theme in this passage? What was his main point? What was the reputation of the Ephesians’ church, according to verse 15? What is your reputation about your faith?

2) Ephesians 1:15-23
How did Paul describe his prayers for them? What was Paul hoping for them? Why were these things so important? Do you need to know God better? Do you know the hope to which He has called you? Are you experiencing the great power of God in your life? Pray this same prayer for yourself and someone else.

3) Ephesians 1:15-23
What did Paul have to say about God’s power in this passage? What was/is the ultimate expression of that power? If you could experience God’s immeasurable power before the end of this day, in what area of your life would you most desire the impact? How will everything be organized according to God’s plan?

4) Ephesians 1:22-23
How is the church like Christ’s body? How does that display the fullness of God? What does that mean? What does it mean for Christ to be the head of the church?
Ephesians 2:17-19
Return to this prayer. Pray it again, thinking about each word, for yourself and for someone else.

For Sunday, September 4, 2010

2010-08-29T06:07:00.000-07:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, September 5, 2010

1) Ephesians 1:1-14
This passage includes a summary of God’s overall plan. What are the main points in this summary? What does each key word mean? What is the role of each member of the Trinity in this plan?

2) Ephesians 1:1-2
How did Paul start the letter? How did he describe the Ephesian Christians? If Paul were writing you, how would he describe you? Verse 2: How are grace and peace related? Pray this blessing on yourself and on someone else today.

3) Ephesians 1:3-6
Romans 8:15-17
If you are adopted into God’s family, what does that mean about God’s authority over you? About your identity? About your inheritance?

4) Ephesians 1:3-14
Verse 3 refers to “every spiritual blessing in Christ.” List the spiritual blessings Paul mentions in the remainder of the passage. Can you add to that list from your personal experience? Do you believe verse 11? What does the life of a person who truly believes verse 11 look like? What is the evidence of their belief in their life?

For Sunday, August 29, 2010

2010-08-22T19:56:00.000-07:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, August 29, 2010

1) 2 Corinthians 10:1-6
How did Paul identify the weapons of a Christian? Why do we need weapons? What does it take to make every thought obedient to Christ? What picture does verse 5 bring to your mind?
Ephesians 6:10-20
Make a prayer out of these verses.

2) 2 Corinthians 11:1-6; 13-15
What aspect of Pau’s relationship with the Corinthian church does he describe in these passages? What does godly jealousy look like in a Christian’s life? How can a person tell if a teaching is from God? What kinds of things lead your mind away form sincere and pure devotion to Christ?

3) 2 Corinthians 12:7-10
Why does Paul tell them about this experience? How is God’s power perfected in weakness? How can we share Paul’s attitude and focus about weakness and suffering on a daily basis?

4) 2 Corinthians 13
What does the passage tell us about Paul’s relationship with the Corinthian church? What stands out to you in this chapter? Verse 5: How does a person do this? Verse 14: What is the role of each member of the Trinity described in this verse?

For Sunday, August 22, 2010

2010-08-15T06:36:00.000-07:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, August 22, 2010

1) 2 Corinthians 8:1-15
Describe the Macedonian churches’ offering. According to verse 5, what was the order of their gifts? What happens when we get this out of order? To what extent does Jesus’ example of extravagant love and grace motivate your giving? How did Paul say the acceptableness of the gift is judged?

2) 2 Corinthians 9:1-5; Romans 15:25-28
What else do we learn about their offering in these passages? What kinds of promises had the Corinthian church made? What were Paul’s concerns? From the Romans passage, can you (at least somewhat) trace Paul’s journey during this trip?

3) 2 Corinthians 9:6-11
What have you learned about cheerful giving in the past year? Which do you give most easily: your time, talents, energy, finances or what? Which is more difficult? How does truly believing the message of verse 8 make you a better giver? How well does verse 11 describe your life?

4) 2 Corinthians 9:12-15; 8:9
What are some of the positive results of being a cheerful giver? How is giving a demonstration of your faith? How does God’s indescribable gift to us motivate us to be better givers? In 8:9, how does Jesus’ example in giving motivate us to be better givers?

For Sunday, August 15, 2010

2010-08-08T06:56:00.000-07:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, August 15, 2010

1) 2 Corinthians 5:11-13
Do you find comfort or unease in knowing your life is completely open before God? Where do you take pride -- in appearance or in the heart? How could following Jesus look like a mental illness? How would you answer someone who thought this?

2) 2 Corinthians 5:14-16
What does a life look like that is controlled by the love of Christ? How is it different from lives that are lived for ourselves? What changes when you no longer look at Christ from a worldly point of view? What changes when you no longer look at others from a worldly point of view? Which of these descriptions best matches your life?

3) 2 Corinthians 5:17-21
When a person comes to Christ, what “old” is gone? How much of this is immediate, and how much takes time? What is the “new” that has come into their lives? What is reconciliation? How is it a “ministry?” How are you living out this ministry? What kind of an ambassador for Christ are you? What are you relying on for your righteousness?

4) 2 Corinthians 5
How would you summarize Paul’s message in this chapter? Which verse stands out to you most? What is God changing in you based on this chapter?

For Sunday, August 8, 2010

2010-08-02T07:05:00.000-07:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, August 8, 2010

I have a prize for anyone who emails, calls or posts on the blog this week that they read this! You must contact me by Saturday, August 7th, at 9:00 pm to qualify.

1) 2 Corinthians 3:1-6
According to these verses, what was the letter of recommendation for Paul’s ministry? Where and how was it written? What has the Holy Spirit written on your heart? Where did Paul look to find his confidence and competence for ministry?

2) 2 Corinthians 4:1-6
How can the gospel be presented wrongly? How did Paul describe the way he presented the gospel message? In what ways has the god of this age blinded the minds and eyes of unbelievers in our community? How has God made His light shine in your heart? How much of that light is shining to others around you?

3) 2 Corinthians 4:7-12; 15-18
Where do people normally store treasures? What did Paul mean by “treasure in jars of clay?” How did Paul view the difficulties and trials he faced? How can your suffering be for others’ benefit spiritually? Examine yourself: which do you spend more time focusing on in your daily life -- the temporary or the eternal?

4) 2 Corinthians 5:1-10
How is this life just a tent for a Christian? What is the “deposit” God has given us on the promise of eternal life? What was Paul’s constant goal (verse 9)? When you allow the Holy Spirit to search your heart, does He find you to be living more by faith or by sight?

For Sunday, August 1, 2010

2010-07-28T06:46:00.000-07:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, Aug 1, 2010

Sorry I posted so late this week! It has been a crazy one!

1) 2 Corinthians 1:3-7
How is God the God of all comfort? Is verse 3 comforting to you? Why or why not? What is the positive side of suffering for a Christian?

2) 1 Corinthians 1:8-12
What is the purpose of suffering in a Christina’s life? How does it effect their walk with God? Their relationships? When has God delivered you? On a scale of 1-10, how well do we share the blessings of answered prayers with each other?

3) 2 Corinthians 2:14-17
Is your life characterized by an attitude of triumphal procession in Christ? What is the fragrance of you life? Is it the aroma of Christ or of something else? How does Paul describe the two possible responses to the aroma of Christ?

4) Re-read the passages from Days 1-3. What does each passage teach us about relationships? Now read 1 Corinthians 13. What is God calling you to do to make your relationships more honoring to him?

For Sunday, July 25, 2010

2010-07-18T16:53:00.000-07:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, July 25, 2010

1) 1 Corinthians 15:1-6
What did Paul say was of first importance? What was the proof that this truly happened? What is distinctive about the life of someone who truly holds this truth to be of primary importance?

2) 1Corinthians 15:12-18
What makes it difficult for some people to believe in the resurrection? Why does all faith in Jesus hinge on the truth of His resurrection? If Christ wasn’t raised, why would our faith be futile?

3) 1 Corinthians 15:50-57
What mystery was Paul describing? Why did it matter? How was Jesus’ resurrection a victory over death? How did Jesus’ victory over death give us victory? Does your daily life display the victory over sin you have available in Christ?

4) John 11:38-44; Matthew 10:6-8; Mark 12:18-23
How does each passage relate to the theme of resurrection? How does each passage influence your belief in, and your ability to demonstrate with your life, Christ’s victory over sin and death through His resurrection?

For Sunday, July 18, 2010

2010-07-12T20:29:00.000-07:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, July 18, 2010

1) 1 Corinthians 13
What stands out to you in the way love is described? How is this different from our culture’s view? Why did Paul say love is great than all other Christian virtues?

2) 1 Corinthians 13
This passage describes God’s love. Re-read, substituting “God’s love” each time it says love. How has God loved you? Meditate on God’s love today.

3) 1 Corinthians 13
Names some actions or great feats people relate to expressions of love. How do they measure up to the standard described in this passage? Make a list with two categories using this passage: love is…love is not….

4) 1 Corinthians 13
Make a sketch map of this passage -- draw a symbol or small picture for each word picture within the verses. Which word picture do you connect with most? Does your life display God’s kind of love? In what ways are you practicing the virtues of faith, hope and love?

For Sunday, July 11, 2010

2010-07-06T07:07:00.000-07:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, July 4, 2010

1) 1 Corinthians 12:1-11
Why was it important for the Christians to not be ignorant about spiritual gifts? What does Paul teach them about the Holy Spirit’s role in the Christian’s life in this passage? How is this message about spiritual gifts a lesson about diversity? How is it a lesson about unity? According to verse 7, what is the purpose of spiritual gifts? What are some of the gifts mentioned in the next few verses? If you are a Christian, have you identified your spiritual gifts? What helped you discover them?

2) 1Corinthians 12:12-26
How is the church like a body? How is that a lesson of diversity? How is that a lesson of unity? How do you see the truth that “no believer is unimportant” demonstrated in this passage? How is that truth demonstrated in our church? How does living according to that truth change how we treat each other? In light of the lesson of verse 19, what should our response be to feelings (in ourselves or others) that one Christian is superior to another, or that some assignment in God’s kingdom is more or less important than another? How well does our church practice verse 26? How well do you practice it personally?

3) 1 Corinthians 12:27-31
Name the gifts listed in this passage. What is the lesson Paul is trying to teach in this passage? What does he mean when he says to “eagerly desire the greater gifts?” How does the end of verse 31 lead into the main topic of the next chapter? How would focusing on love as the main goal influence Christians’ application of their spiritual gifts?

4) Romans 12:3-8; Ephesians 4:11-13; Colossians 1:8
How does reading these passages add to your understanding of spiritual gifts? Why is it so important to remember who the head of our “body” is? Why is it so important to remember the purpose of spiritual gifts?

For Sunday, July 4, 2010

2010-06-27T17:15:00.000-07:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, July 4, 2010

1) 1 Corinthians 8:1-3
What aspect of their old lives was causing conflicts for the Corinthian Christians according to this verse? How does knowledge puff up? What did Paul mean? What would be different in someone’s actions toward others who was focused on love rather than on their own knowledge?

2) 1Corinthians 8:9-13; 10:23-24
How can we tell the difference between areas of our Christian lives that have clear boundaries of right and wrong and areas of freedom? According to Paul, how can we destroy someone by our knowledge? What are some stumbling blocks for you? When have you been a stumbling block for someone else?

3) 1 Corinthians 9:19-23
What did Paul claim as his goal when choosing about issues of Christian freedom? How could this teaching be misunderstood or abused? Where do you think Paul drew the boundary lines in trying to bring the gospel to all?

4) 1 Corinthians 10:31-11:1
What should be the ultimate goal of all our activities and decision? Whose good should we seek? Pray and examine yourself in regard to the teaching of these verses.

For Sunday, June 27, 2010

2010-06-21T07:26:00.000-07:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, June 27, 2010

1) 1 Corinthians 7:1-6
In verse 1, Paul addresses how he chose his topic. What was the reason? What did Paul instruct them about marriage? What did he tell widows? The unmarried? The believer married to an unbeliever?

2) 1Corinthians 7:17-24
What is the primary principle Paul repeats in this passage? What are the benefits in God’s kingdom to staying in the position (socially, economically, etc) you were when you became a Christian? Are there exceptions? How does this relate to freedom in Christ? To our Kingdom responsibilities?

3) 1 Corinthians 7:25-40
According to Paul, what are the benefits of marriage? Of single hood? The church in Corinth was debating the issue. What was Paul’s advice? Do you agree or disagree with Paul?

4) Matthew 19:1-12
What did Jesus have to say about marriage in this passage? What was the Pharisees’ opinion about marriage? How does the attitude toward marriage in that day compare to the attitude toward marriage in our culture today?
2 Corinthians 6:14-18
What does it mean to be yoked together? How does this relate to Paul’s instructions in 1 Corinthians 7:12-16?

For Sunday, June 20, 2010

2010-06-13T08:08:00.000-07:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, June 20, 2010

1) 1 Corinthians 5:1-5; 9-13
What problem in the Corinthian church does Paul discuss in this passage? What are his instructions? Do they seem extreme or hard? Why does Paul react so strongly to this issue?

2) 1Corinthians 6:1-8
What problem in the Corinthian church does Paul discuss in this passage? What are his instructions? How has this problem effected their witness? Why did Paul say they should be willing to be wronged or cheated?

3) 1 Corinthians 6:9-11
What is the bad news in these verses? What is the good news? If Paul was writing this description about your life before Christ, what labels would he have included? Spend time worshipping God for washing, sanctifying and justifying you.

4) 1 Corinthians 6:12-20
Phrase the excuses in verse 12 in modern day language. What was the price you were bought with? How does keeping that focus help us avoid sexual immorality? Are you honoring God with your body?

For Sunday, June 13, 2010

2010-06-06T20:44:00.000-07:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, June 13, 2010

1) Acts 18
What do we learn about Paul in this chapter? About Corinth? About Apollos?

2) 1Corinthians 4:1-7
The church in Corinth was arguing about leadership. According to Paul, how should Christian leaders be viewed? Whose opinion and judgment matters? Why did Paul say they shouldn’t take pride in one leader over another? Why not?

3) 1 Corinthians 4:8-13
In what sense had they become rich kings? How did Paul describe an apostle’s life? Does your life demonstrate an attitude of awareness of the riches you have in Christ?

4) 1 Corinthians 4:14-21
Why did Paul send Timothy to Corinth? What did Paul mean in verse 20? How can we avoid spiritual arrogance?

For Sunday, June 6, 2010

2010-05-31T10:25:00.000-07:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, June 6, 2010

1) 1 Corinthians 1:11-17; 3:3-9, 21-23
What problem was the church in Corinth having? How did Paul describe it? What were his arguments against all sides involved in the conflict?

2) 1Corinthians 1:1-10
What did Paul say about unity in these verses? What is the source of unity among Christians? What benefits of unity did Paul list in these verses?

3) 1 Corinthians 1:18-2:5
Summarize Paul’s main point in verses 18-25. What does this lesson have to do with Christian unity? What did Paul’s personal example teach them about unity?

4) 1 Corinthians 3:10-13
What is our foundation? How does that lead to unity? In verse 12, Paul lists many things a person’s life can be built with. What happens to each material as it passes through the fire? What are you building with? Do you treat your body and life like God’s temple? What is God asking you to do differently?

For Sunday, May 30, 2010

2010-05-23T15:08:00.000-07:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, May 30, 2010

1) Leviticus 25:1-8
What did God command? What would the benefit of obedience be for the land? For the people? What would obeying this instruction free them to do? How was obeying this command an act of faith?

2) Leviticus 25:8-17
What was the Year of Jubilee? What were the purposes of observing it? How was obedience to this command an act of faith? How did it demonstrate their fear of God (v. 17)?

3) Leviticus 25:18-28
How is the practice of Jubilee different form the philosophy most people live by? How would this practice effect the Israelites’ view of, and relationship with, God and each other?

4) Leviticus 25:29-38
In verse 38, why did God give them this reminder? How does the idea of redemption in the Year of Jubilee relate to the idea of redemption from sin and death through Jesus? What do these commands about Sabbath days, years and the Jubilee Year teach us about God’s character? Do you trust God enough to observe and celebrate Sabbath rest?

For Sunday, May 23, 2010

2010-05-16T15:56:00.000-07:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, May 23, 2010

1) Leviticus 18:1-15
Summarize the theme of these verses. What is your response to reading them? In verses 1-5, what is the main thing God is trying to teach them?

2) Leviticus 18:16-30
What stands out to you in this long list? What was God’s purpose in giving this long and descriptive set of rules? According to verse 29, how serious were the consequences of these sins?

3) Leviticus 19:1-13
How does this passage compare to Exodus 20:1-17? What’s the same? What’s different? What name does God use to identify Himself to them? Why?

4) Proverbs 20:1-8; 2 Kings 23:8-11; Jeremiah 7:30-34
What do you know about the god Molech and the practice of worshipping him? From what you know, count how many of the 10 Commandments (Exodus 20:1-17) were broken when worshipping Molech.
Matthew 5:27-30
Jesus took the rules of this lesson to a higher level. How?

For Sunday, May 16, 2010

2010-05-09T16:01:00.000-07:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, May 16, 2010

1) Leviticus 5:1,4
What two examples of sin are listed? How might a person make excuses for these sins?
Leviticus 5:5
What did God tell them to do about it? Why did they have to sacrifice a lamb or goat?
Ephesians 1:7; Hebrews 7:27
How is dealing with sin different since Jesus’ sacrifice?

2) Leviticus 5:14-16
How does the world see unintentional sin? How does God see it? What was the purpose of adding 1/5 to the value?
Luke 19:1-10
How did Zacchaeus’ attitude and actions in repentance compare to God’s instructions in Leviticus 5:14-16?

3) Leviticus 6:1-7
What kinds of sins are addressed in this passage? What were the consequences? How was bringing the sacrifice to the priest the same as bringing it to the Lord (v. 6)?
Ephesians 2:8
If we are forgiven by grace, not by earning it, why does God make commands about restitution?

4) Proverbs 28:13-14
What is your response to these verses? What is your emotional response? Have you been living by this truth?
Psalm 51
Spend time meditating on this Psalm. Is there sin, intentional or not, in your life that you haven’t confessed to and turned away from? Talk to God about it now.

For Sunday, May 9, 2010

2010-05-02T16:11:00.000-07:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, May 9, 2010

1) Exodus 35:4-10
What kinds of offerings were being gathered? How did they decide what to give? What was the purpose of these offerings? Other than material gifts, what else was needed?
Exodus 35:20-29
How did the people respond to the need? Who gave what? Who didn’t participate? How was the community effected by the level and kinds of participation? What attitude did the participants have?

2) Exodus 35:30-6:1
Who was chosen as expert craftsmen? Why? What does “Spirit-filled” mean to you? What does “Spirit-filled” service look like? What does it look like when service isn’t “Spirit-filled?” Who else helped? Why was their expertise so important?

3) Exodus 39:32, 42-43
How did the final inspection go? What standard was used to judge it?
Exodus 40:1-11
The big day was finally arriving. Name some of the things on Moses’ to do list. Why was so much preparation needed? How do you prepare for worship?

4) Exodus 40:12-15
Why was it so important for Aaron and his sons to follow God’s directions about consecration? What does consecration mean? In what ways have you been consecrated for God’s kingdom?
Exodus 40:34-38
What was the function and purpose of the Tabernacle once it was completed? How did God guide them? How does God guide you? What role does worship play in that process?

For Sunday, May 2, 2010

2010-04-25T15:51:00.000-07:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, May 2, 2010
Also posted on nabc-prepared.blogspot.com. Login and join the conversation!

1) Exodus24:1-18
What was Moses’ instructions? The rest of the peoples‘? What was the peoples’ response to their instructions? Focus on verse 15-18. What would it have been like to see this scene? How do you think the people felt when they saw this scene?

2) Exodus 32:1-6
What led the Israelites to want another god? Where was their focus? What had they forgotten? What did Aaron do? What were his motives? After seeing their reaction, what did he realize? How did he try to make it right?

3) Exodus 32:7-14
How did Moses find out about the people’s sin? How did God describe the people? How are we sometimes like them? What new option did God give Moses? What was Moses’ response? What “facts” of the situation did he focus on? How else could Moses have responded? What does that show us about the leadership qualities of Moses? What would you be willing to give in order to see a faltering believer restored to faithfulness?

4) Exodus 32:30-35
How did Moses respond to the people? What is surprising about his prayer to God? What does God’s response show about His character? What were the consequences of their sin? What consequences weren’t included? Why is identifying sins specifically an important element of confession?

5) Exodus 34:4-14
What happened next? How did God describe Himself as He passed by? Which of these characteristics means the most of you right now? What was the status of their relationship with God after their confession of their sin? What were the instructions and promises God gave them?

Class Gathering -- Bible Study

2010-04-18T15:42:00.000-07:00

Sunday School Class Gathering

Friday, April 30^Th

6:30 pm

Wade’s House

Bible study gathering, plus potluck dinner.

Hope to see you there!

Call Joy or Leanne, or respond on this post, if you have any questions or for more information.

For Sunday, April 25, 2010

2010-04-18T15:41:00.000-07:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, April 25, 2010

1) Exodus 25:1-9
What was to determine what offering each Israelite gave? How do the offerings you give reflect your worship of God? What kinds of supplies were needed for the new sanctuary? What is the role of design with preparing a place of worship? Why was it so important for them to follow God’s pattern exactly?

2) Exodus 25:10-22
Sketch a picture of what the Ark of the Covenant might have looked like. What was the purpose of the “mercy seat?” (Some translations call it other things, like “atonement cover.”) What does the concept of a “mercy seat” tell us about God?

3) Exodus 29:38-41
What offering was to be burnt on the altar everyday? With what frequency? Why so often? How did the burning of a lamb remind the Israelites of their past? How did it point them to the future?

4) Exodus 29:42-46
What was the overall purpose of all the worship instructions? What all would be consecrated? What does consecrated mean? How was it going to happen? What do these instructions teach us about the character of God?

For Sunday, April 18, 2010

2010-04-12T09:06:00.000-07:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, April 18, 2010

1) Exodus 20:1-17
The Ten Commandments describe the holiness that is required for fellowship with God. Which is the easiest for you to obey? Which is hardest? How are these rules a gift of grace from the Creator to His people? How do you think the Lord punishes those who misuse His name through profanity? How do you seek to honor God on the Sabbath? What does it mean to honor you parents as an adult?

2) Exodus 19:1-13; 20:18-21
What was God teaching the Israelites about Himself? About Moses, their leader? Why did God approach the people this way? What was God’s promise to them (19:5-6)?

3) Matthew 5:17
How did Jesus fulfill the purpose of the Law?
Matthew 5:21-22, 27-28, 33-37
How did Jesus expand their understanding of the Law? How does this change a person’s approach to obeying the Ten Commandments?

4) Mark 12:28-31
Jesus’ summary of the Law has two parts. What are they? Which of the Ten Commandments apply to each part of Jesus summary?
Romans 13:8-10
What is the fulfillment of the Law, according to Paul? Does your adherence to the Ten Commandments reflect this attitude?

For Sunday, April 11, 2010

2010-04-05T14:14:00.000-07:00

Exodus 16:1-5
How long had the Israelites been out of Egypt? What was their complaint? Who did they blame? What was God's gift to them? What was the purpose of the gift?

Exodus 16:6-18
What was the purpose of the gift God gave them? How was grumbling against Moses and Aaron really grumbling against the Lord? What does that mean about our situations when we are tempted to grumble against the leaders God puts over us? How was their need supplied? How well was it distributed?

Exodus 16:19-30
What was the most important instruction about the daily manna? How well was it followed? What were the consequences of disobeying this instruction? What was God trying to teach them? What was their instruction about the Sabbath? What was the consequence for the disobedient? What was God trying to teach them about the Sabbath?

Exodus 16:31-36
Manna means "What is it?" How did Manna get its name? What was the purpose of keeping a jar of it in front of the Testimony (Tabernacle)? What would the Israelites learn about God and their relationship with Him through this provision? What have you learned about your relationship with God through the ways He has provided for you?

For Sunday, April 4, 2010

2010-03-28T16:49:00.000-07:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, April 4, 2010

1) Luke 24:1-8; Matthew 16:21
According to the two men in dazzling clothes, what did Jesus say were the three events that must happen to the Son of Man? What was keeping Jesus’ followers (disciples, women, etc.) from remembering Jesus’ words? What emotions or situations make it hard for you to remember Jesus’ words? Which of Jesus’ words is the Holy Spirit reminding you of right now?

2) Luke 24:13-35
What made them recognized it was Jesus? What gift did Jesus give them during His time with them? How did this event change their plans? How has interacting with Jesus changed your plans?

3) Luke 24:36-43
What was Jesus’ blessing and greeting to them? Why did they still have difficulty believing, even after Jesus showed them evidence? What did Jesus do to “prove” His resurrection? (Name at least 4 things.)

4) Luke 24:44-49
How did Jesus change their understanding of the events? What were the main points of God’s plan He summarized for them? What was their new job? List the evidence that you have experienced the power of Christ in your life.

For Sunday, March 28, 2010

2010-03-22T10:07:00.000-07:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, March 28, 2010

1) Exodus 12:50-51
What had just happened to the Israelites?
Exodus 13:1; 14-16
What were they commanded to celebrate? Why? Can you think of a New Testament connection with the emphasis on the first born son?

2) Exodus 13:17-18;21-22
Where did God lead them? This was not the most direct route. Why did He lead them this way? How did He lead them? When has God led you in a way you did not understand at first?

3) Exodus 14:1-4
How did God show His control over these events? What was His purpose?
Exodus 14:5-12
What was Pharaoh’s response to this situation? How did the Israelites respond? How well did this reaction match God’s prediction in Exodus 13:17?

4) Exodus 14:13-14
What were Moses’ instructions to the people? What were God’s instructions to Moses?
Exodus 14:15-31
Which part of this story is most amazing to you? How has God surprised you by the way He answered your prayer for help? How did God gain glory through Pharaoh?

Bonus:
Compare the Israelites emotions and action on each side of the Red Sea. Compare their attitudes toward God on each side of the Red Sea.
Could you do me a favor, please? If you read this online this week, could you either leave a message saying so, or email me that you did? Thanks.

For Sunday, March 21, 2010

2010-03-15T10:45:00.000-07:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, March 21, 2010

1) Exodus 11:1
God said there would be one more plague on Egypt. Before studying this last plague, skim and review Exodus 7:14-10:29 to remember the 9 prior plagues.

2) Exodus 11:1-10
What did the Egyptians think of Moses and the Israelites? What was Pharaoh’s opinion of them? What was the 10^th plague going to be? What did God tell Moses that Pharaoh’s response would be?

3) Exodus 12:1-5
How would this event be a new beginning for Israel? What did they need for the celebration? Do you celebrate you spiritual birthday in any special way?

4) Exodus 12:5-14
What were the requirements for the Passover animal? Why did they have to smear blood on the doorways? Why would it be important for them to remember this event? What has God delivered you from?

For Sunday, March 14, 2010

2010-03-08T06:48:00.000-08:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, March 14, 2010

1) Exodus 4:29-5:5
How did the Israelites react to God’s message? What was Pharaoh’s reaction to God’s message? What was Pharaoh’s biggest concern?

2) Exodus 5:6-21
What were the immediate consequences when Moses and Aaron gave Pharaoh God’s message? What was the purpose of the extra work they were given (verse 9)?
How did the foremen react to the news? How do you react to frustrations in your work?

3) Exodus 5:22-6:9
What was Moses’ question to God? What was he accusing God of? What was God’s plan for Israel? What words did God use to emphasize His desire for relationship with them? How many of those words apply to God’s relationship with you?

4) Exodus 6:28-7:6
What was Moses’ excuse for delaying in obedience? What excuses do you make for delaying obedience to God? In what sense would Moses be like God to Pharaoh? What was God’s ultimate purpose behind all these events?

For Sunday, March 7, 2010

2010-03-01T09:30:00.000-08:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, March 7, 2010

1) Exodus 1:1-14, 23-25
How did the Israelites end up in Egypt? How was life for them in Egypt? What was God’s relationship to Israel?

2) Exodus 3:1-9
Where was Moses, and what was he doing? What caught his attention? Why did God tell Moses to take off his sandals? What made it that way? In verses 7-8, God had four reactions to Israel’s plight. What were they? What was His plan for Israel’s future?

3) Exodus 3:10-15
What was Moses’ reaction to his job from God? Have you ever had this reaction when God led you to do something new? How would God be re-introduced to the Israelites?

4) Exodus 3:16-22
What predictions did God tell Moses? What would Moses be responsible for in this plan? What was surprising about this plan?

For Sunday, February 28, 2010

2010-02-22T07:23:00.000-08:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, February 28, 2010

1) Mark 15:1-15
How would you describe this trial? Why didn’t Jesus answer more questions or give a defense during the trial? Even Pilate knew the chief priests’ motive was _________.
The people chose Barabbas over Jesus. What do people today choose when they reject Jesus?

2) Mark 15:15-20
What part of their treatment of Jesus seems worst to you? What temptation did Jesus have to face at this moment?
Philippians 2:8-11
How does the scene in the Mark 15 passage compare to this description of Jesus’ return?

3) Mark 15:25-40
Who insulted Jesus? How did they insult Him? When did they stop insulting Him? Who among the crowd didn’t insult Him? What reaction do you have that Jesus stayed on the cross for your benefit?

4) Mark 16:1-8
What were the women concerned about? What did the white-robed man tell them as evidence of the resurrection? What were their instructions?

Class Gathering -- Bible Study

2010-02-18T09:49:00.001-08:00

The Bible study and potluck dinner scheduled for February 26th has been postponed. I will post a new message when it gets rescheduled!
Thanks!

For Sunday, February 21, 2010

2010-02-15T15:21:00.000-08:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, February 21, 2010

1) Mark 14:32-42
What were Jesus’ emotions at this time? What was His solution for facing these emotions? Why did He take Peter, James and John with Him? How much help were they?

2) Mark 14:43-50
Describe all the people gathered by verse 43. Who was there? Who was not (or not mentioned)? How did Jesus explain His willingness to be arrested? What words would you use to describe Jesus in this passage?

3) Mark 14:35-36
Label the parts of Jesus’ prayer. What did He include? What did He leave out?
Isaiah 51:17
What did Jesus mean by “this cup?”

4) Mark 14:27-31, 40
What was the bad news for the disciples? What was the good news for them? How did the disciples’ actions match Jesus’ expectations?

For Sunday, February 14, 2010

2010-02-08T11:57:00.000-08:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, February 14, 2010

1) Mark 13:1-8
How did the disciples react to Jesus’ prophecy about the temple? Which of the signs of the end times have you seen in your lifetime? Which did the disciples see in their lifetimes? Which of the circumstances listed tempts you to be frightened?

2) Mark 13:9-13
What is the bad news in this passage? What is the good news? How do you think the disciples felt about this message?

3) Mark 13:14-27
The abomination that causes desolation is the detestable thing that causes desolation in the holy place. We will talk more about this in class.
According to Jesus in this passage, what will be the challenge of living through these times? How has God shown mercy in His plan for these days? How will the difficult time end?

4) Mark 13:28-37
How do you view signs of the end times? What were Jesus’ instructions about preparing for these times? What does it mean to “keep watch?” How are you “keeping watch” in your life?

For Sunday, February 7, 2010

2010-02-02T14:19:00.001-08:00

Reading selections and questions for Sunday, February 7, 2010

1) Mark 12:13
Why were the leaders trying to trap Jesus?
Mark 11:1-11, 15-19, 27-33; 12:12
How did all these events motivate the leaders against Jesus?

2) Mark 12:13-17
What question did they ask Jesus? Why was this a tricky question? How did Jesus answer the challenge? What are our responsibilities toward our government? How well do you follow Jesus' instructions in 12:17? What is your attitude?

3) Mark 12:28-34
What was the teacher's question to Jesus? In your opinion, what were his motives in asking? How did he respond to Jesus' answer?

4) Mark 12:29-31
Why did Jesus choose these two commandments as the top two greatest?
(Deuteronomy 6:4-9; Leviticus 19:18 These are the Old Testament sources for Jesus' answer.)
Luke 10:25-37
How do you demonstrate Mark 12:30? How is the way you love others connected to the way you love God?

For Sunday, January 31, 2010

2010-01-25T11:27:00.000-08:00

Reading Selections and Questions for Sunday, January 31, 2010.

1) Mark 10:32-34
Where were they going? How were they feeling about it? Why is this detail important? What did Jesus say was going to happen?
Isaiah 50:6; 53:3,8-9
This is a prophecy about the Messiah that would have been well-known to the disciples. How does this prophecy connect to Jesus’ words in v. 34?

2) Mark 10:34-41
What was James and John’s request? Why did they ask at this time? What was Jesus’ response? What was the other disciples’ response?
Matthew 20:20-28
What additional details in this passage provide more information about this event?

3) Mark 10:35-45
How did Jesus respond to James and John’s request? What was wrong with their request? According to Jesus, what is the path to greatness in God’s kingdom? How do you measure greatness and success in your own life?

4) Mark 10:45
What does it mean to be a ransom?
Leviticus 5:14-6:7
What was the purpose of the guilt offering? How did Jesus fulfill this?
Isaiah 53:10-12
How did Jesus’ life contradict the expectations of the people waiting for the Messiah?

For January 24, 2010

2010-01-18T11:22:00.000-08:00

Reading Selections and Questions for Sunday, January 24, 2010.

1) Mark 9:33-37
What were the disciples arguing about? What lesson was Jesus trying to teach them?
Luke 22:24-27
How did Jesus’ teaching in this passage contrast to worldly wisdom ? How did Jesus live out His servant attitude? How do you live out your servant attitude?

2) Mark 9:38-41
What was John’s concern?
Matthew 10:40-42
What did Jesus teach as the standard for inclusion in His kingdom?
Numbers 11:24-29
How does this Old Testament story compare to what the disciples were learning?

3) Mark 9:42-50
What did Jesus teach about the seriousness of sin? How is our attitude toward sin related to having healthy relationships? Focus on verse 49: Name some properties of salt. What is it useful for? What does it mean to be salted by fire?

4) 1 Corinthians 1:10-17
How does this situation in the church compare with Mark 9:33-41? According to these passages, what attitude should we have toward other Christians and churches?
Romans 12:9-21
Which of these “getting along” instructions stand out the most to you?

Class Ministry Project

2010-01-11T11:00:00.000-08:00

Class Ministry Project
Saturday, January 23rd
Meet at the Church at 9:00am

We will be baking treats and making thank you notes to deliver to our local police station.
This is a great event for the whole family to participate in ministry together!
If you have any questions, you can comment here or contact Leanne.

For Sunday, January 17, 2010

2010-01-11T10:18:00.000-08:00

Reading Selections and Questions for Sunday, January 17, 2010.

1) Mark 3:1-6
What did Jesus’ actions show about His values? What did He value? What did His emotional reactions in this passage show about His values?

2) Mark 5:21-24, 35-43
What motivated Jarius to seek Jesus? What can we learn from Jarius’ example? In what area of your life is Jesus saying verse 36 to you?

3) Mark 5:24-34
Jesus could have responded to this woman’s need and use of His power differently. Can you think of some other ways? What did His choice demonstrate about His character and values? Why did He want her identified to Him?

4) Mark 10:13-16
What stands out to you in this passage? What does it mean to receive the kingdom of God like a child? What’s the difference between child-likeness and childishness in regard to participating in God’s kingdom? Will you take time to sit with Jesus and let Him bless you today?